Iron Age Greek Gold Finger Ring

Code: 10720

This is an ancient Greek gold finger ring, dating to the 5th century B.C. The shape coresponds to Boardman type F Archaic Greek (dating from the Gela hoard as belonging to the second half of the 6th century B.C.) The bezel is elliptical (pointed oval), with an undecorated face (usually engraved for use as a seal). It would appear this type of ring was popular in ancient Greece, pre-Persian invasion. Similar rings held at the British Museum were recovered from the (Achaemenid) Oxsus Treasure (see here and here) dating to the 5th - 4th century B.C. The Oxsus Treasure is thought to have been from a temple, deposited over centuries as offerings the the gods. As such the date of the 5th century is the most likely for this type of ring. This example is intact with no restorations, a lovely example in wearable condition. 

OBJECT: Finger Ring

CULTURE: Ancient Greek

DATE: c. 5th century B.C.

MATERIAL: Gold

RING SIZE:   6   (US)      M  (UK)

SIZE: 22.45mm x 22.17mm x 2.46mm (bezel 15.01mm x 8.37mm)

WEIGHT: 1.6 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. European Private Collection