Code: 10659
This is an ancient Roman gold finger ring, dating to the 1st - 3rd century AD. The palm branch on Roman rings was associated with the goddess Hilaritas, an ancient Roman personification and goddess of joy, rejoicing, and good humour. She embodied cheerfulness, festivity, and public happiness. Green branches were a sign of gladness, and for special occasions, both public and private, it was the custom in ancient times to ornament streets, temples, gates, houses, and even entire cities with branches and leaves of trees. This tradition carries on today in the form of wreaths and Christmas trees.
This example is quite small, so it is likely originally intended for a child or a baby to wear. so perhaps this ring was gifted to a child to celebrate a happy event? A poignant little finger ring for a serious collector.
OBJECT: Finger Ring
CULTURE: Roman
DATE: c. 1st - 3rd century A.D.
MATERIAL: Gold
RING SIZE: 3/4 (US) A 1/2 (UK)
SIZE: 13mm x 14 x 2mm (bezel 7mm x 4mm)
WEIGHT: 1 gram
PROVENANCE: Ex. private collection, Hertfordshire
