Ancient Roman Carnelian Intaglio with an Ant

Unique and pretty ancient Roman carnelian intaglio carved with an image of an ant. Dates to circa the 2nd - 3rd century AD.  Length: 6 mm. 

In Ancient Rome, ants (formica) were thought of as a symbol of hard work and diligence. They were seen as a symbol of toil and industry and the dedication with which one works a trait which they saw as essential to the Roman character and especially the military.

cf.: British Museum, London, museum no. 1986,0401.217. 

Formerly United Kingdom collection