Ancient-Jewellery

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Roman Silver Finger Ring Sacred to SILVANUS VIATOR

SOLD

Code: 10426



This is an ancient Roman silver finger ring, dating to the 3rd - 4th century A.D. It is inscribed with what appears to read SILVESCILVARIET with no formal stops or beginning. It appears to me, to be a dedicatory inscription to the god Silvanus Viator, known from  Pannonia and Britain (see PDF here p. 158 and here). These rings are associated with the 'chtonic-psychopompic' aspect of the god Silvanus to protect the living (from vengeful spirits of the underworld), rather than a dedicatory ring for use in the afterlife. This example is heavily worn, demonstrating active wear for a long period of time (clearly the protective spell worked!). The inside band appears to have a crack, however, this is part of the formation of the band by folding and hammering. It has survived in good excavated condition, suitable for wear with care.

OBJECT: Finger Ring

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 3rd - 4th century A.D.

MATERIAL: Silver

RING SIZE:  12 1/2  (US)  Z (UK)

SIZE: 26mm x 24mm x 8mm

WEIGHT: 8.97 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. Private collection Hertfordshire.