Ancient Roman Jasper Intaglio Antonine Male Head for a Ring

Code: 10225

This is a wonderful ancient Roman portrait intaglio, dating to the 2nd century A.D. It is finely cut with a recognizable head of a man (likely the original owner) with Antonine features. The gem would date from the early to mid 2nd century, during the reign of Emperors Hadrian to Marcus Aurelius. It would have been set into a gold or silver signet ring, used to seal and authenticate letters and transaction. Today this ancient gem has survived down to us in perfect condition, suitable for remounting into a gold signet ring today. 

OBJECT: Intaglio

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 2nd century A.D.

MATERIAL: Jasper

SIZE: 13mm x 11mm x 2mm 

WEIGHT: 0.49 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex.Property of a London Gentleman; acquired by his father in the 1970s; thence by descent.