The trinity of the most important Roman gods Iuppiter and flanking Iuno and Minerva. Iuppiter is depicted standing, which actually does not correspond to the usual iconographic mode of depiction. All three deities had their own cult rooms (cellae) in the temple of Iuppiter Optimus Maximus on the Capitol in Rome.
August Kestner was one of the best experts on antique gems in his time, which is reflected in his collection of some 2000 gems. His special merit, especially in connection with his work at the 'Instituto di Corrispondenza Archeologica', is the publication of the 'Impronte Gemmarie', a collection of casts which brings together all the important gems known since 1829 and also includes specimens from his own collection - such as this gem (under Cades 2, A 177). (AVS)

Former August Kestner Collection, Rome