Ancient Gold Ring Set with a Sardonyx Cameo of a Woman.
Roman, 3rd century AD.
Measurements
• Ring size: F 1/2 UK / 3 US / 44 EU
• Bezel: 1.5 x 1.1cm
• Weight: 5.96 grams
A gold ring of solid construction, set with an oval sardonyx cameo carved in high relief with the profile bust of a woman facing left. Her hair is arranged in an elaborate coiffure, drawn back into a bun, with fine striations denoting the strands. The draped neckline of her garment is carefully rendered, with folds emphasised by incised detailing. The cameo shows a small chip to the nose.
The original gold shank is of flat-section form, flaring to support the bezel, and ornamented to each shoulder with outward-facing dolphins in openwork, their heads meeting beneath the bezel. The dolphins’ bodies are stylised yet retain naturalistic details of the eyes and fins. There is a small loss of gold to the reverse of the shank, consistent with age and wear.
Iconographic and Cultural Context
Dolphins held significant symbolic value in the Roman world, associated with Venus and maritime protection, as well as serving as talismans of safe passage over water. Cameos of this period often depict idealised female figures, either portraits or allegorical types, and were valued as personal adornments and status symbols.
Shipping
Worldwide shipping is included in all prices.
Matthew Holder does not accept any responsibility for import duty, this is to be paid by the buyer.
Shipping will usually be made within 3 days of payment using a tracked and signed for service of Matthew Holder's choosing unless agreed otherwise.
Returns
We want you to be happy with your purchase, we therefore offer a 14 day money back guarantee.
In this case the item must be returned prior to any refund, in the condition in which it was sent.
We will not be responsible for any shipping costs incurred in the return of such items.
All sales are subject to our standard terms and conditions.
