Roman Gold and jasper intaglio ring of Minerva

Code: 11358

This is an ancient Roman gold intaglio ring, dating to the 1st century A.D. It is set with its original red jasper gemstone, superbly cut with a portrait of the goddess Minerva. A similar gem 81.79H/4.41 was excavated at the Roman Fortress Baths, Caerleon identified as a "bust of a helmeted female figure to right, wearing peplos over what may be a scale cuirass. Probably Minerva, or Roma in view of the absence of the palladium". This jasper example appears to be from the same workshop likely supplying the Roman military elite.  

This ring is original and in excellent condition.

OBJECT: Intaglio Ring

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 1st century A.D.

MATERIAL: Gold & Jasper 

RING SIZE: 2 3/4 (US)   E 1/2 (UK)

SIZE: 17.04mm x 21.55mm x 2.62mm (intaglio 13.11mm x 9.92mm)

WEIGHT: 4.31 grams

PROVENANCE: Formerly in a London private collection.