Roman ring depicting an animal

Roman ring depicting an animal
ITEM: Ring depicting an animal
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 3rd - 5th Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 20 mm x 30 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Austrian private collection, acquired before 1990s

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

Roman rings are significant artifacts that reflect the cultural, social, and personal aspects of life in ancient Rome. These rings, crafted from various materials such as gold, silver, bronze, and iron, were worn by both men and women and served multiple purposes, ranging from decorative to functional. Rings were not only symbols of personal adornment and status but also played vital roles in legal and administrative matters as signet rings used to seal documents.

One of the most notable features of Roman rings is their diversity in design and symbolism. Many rings were adorned with intricate engravings, gemstones, or cameos. The gemstones, often semi-precious, were selected not just for their beauty but also for their believed protective or healing properties. Common motifs included depictions of gods and goddesses, mythological scenes, animals, and geometric patterns. Rings also frequently bore inscriptions, such as the names of the owners, short messages, or symbols of good luck. This rich iconography provides valuable insights into the beliefs, values, and daily lives of the Romans, showcasing their artistry and the symbolic meanings they attached to personal items.

In addition to their decorative and symbolic roles, Roman rings had practical applications, especially in the context of sealing documents. Signet rings, which featured a carved or engraved seal on the bezel, were used to imprint a unique mark into wax seals on documents, authenticating the contents and signifying the owner's approval. This practice was widespread among the Roman elite and officials, reflecting the importance of secure communication and the legal significance of personal seals. The use of signet rings underscores the interconnectedness of personal identity, authority, and administration in Roman society, illustrating how everyday objects like rings could have profound social and legal implications.

Roman rings thus offer a multifaceted glimpse into the ancient world, combining elements of personal expression, social status, and practical utility. They are invaluable to historians and archaeologists for understanding the complexities of Roman culture, the technological advancements in jewelry-making, and the societal norms of the time.

Measurement:

3 x 2 cm