Gold Intaglio Ring of Bacchus

Code: 10150

This is a wonderful ancient Roman gold intaglio, dating to the 2nd century A.D. The ring is set with the original carnelian intaglio, depicting the god Bacchus with his panther. The ring is decorated with a beaded shank, with the bezel having a simple chamfered design. Sadly the intaglio has an ancient chip on the upper edge, reflected in the bezel. Bacchus is depicted in a state of animation, his thyrsus staff held in one hand whilst pouring libation or wine from an ewer in the other. At his feet stands a small figure of a panther, the ribbons of the thyrsus float around. The quality of the cutting is very good, the detail and polished surfaces all display great age. Such a Roman gold ring would have been worn by an elite or wealthy citizen, who wished to convey their love of good wine and revelry. Today this wonderful ring has survived in good excavated condition (the gem still secure) enabling it to be worn and loved again.

OBJECT: Intaglio Ring

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 2nd - 3rd century A.D.

MATERIAL: Gold & Carnelian

RING SIZE:  8 1/4 (US) Q 1/2  (UK)

SIZE: 22.53mm x 22.98mm x 2.73mm (bezel 13.51mm x 11.19mm x 3.89mm)

WEIGHT: 6.19 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. property of a gentleman, Mayfair, England.