Lot 985
Early Byzantine gold ring (5th–6th centuries A.D.) with an older Roman gemstone (1st–2nd centuries A.D.)
Works of Art, Antiquities & Ancient Art | A109kua | Live auction | 1190 Lots
Description
Hexagonal, wide and hollow-worked ring shank, its diameter widening from approx. 4 mm to approx. 7 mm near the ring plate. Soldered to the top of the ring shank is an oval socket of approx. 6 mm in height, set transversely to the direction of the ring shank. The socket is conical, widening from 8 mm at the bottom to 17 mm at the top (longitudinal axis). The hollow socket filled with “cement”. On the upper side, a horizontal inward-drawn border, in the centre of which runs an angular, continuously encircling rail. Set into the socket is a slightly domed, black agate gem (13 mm x 10 mm) depicting a winged erote dancing to the left, carrying a helmet (?) conferring invisibility and a trident in his right hand (both weapons of the Cyclopes?). Apart from minimal signs of wear and tiny dents, intact. Maximum outside diameter 28 mm, height 33 mm. Weight with Stein: 8.82 gr. Cultural Asset!Provenance: A private collection in southern Germany, from the estate of the collector’s grandfather. The works were purchased by him at art fairs and in galleries between the 1980s and 1990s.
Condition: I - II Questions about the lot?
