Ancient Roman gold intaglio ring of a crouching Hare sacred to Venus

Code: 11673

This is an ancient Roman gold intaglio ring dating to the 3rd century AD. This example is still set with the original intaglio in a blue/black glass paste, imitating a rare and coveted Nicolo onyx. The gem is set within an octagonal box-shaped bezel, still secured with the original cement and rubbed over setting. The shoulders are delicately sculpted with raised and curled/fluted design. The band is intact and is perfectly wearable today.  The intaglio depicts a crouching Hare, with long ears and a brown/black appearance due to the colour of the gem. The libidinous hare was sacred to Aphrodite and Eros (Venus and Cupid), and live hares were often presented as love gifts - long ago this ancient ring may have been one such gift!

OBJECT: Finger Ring

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 3rd century AD

MATERIAL: Gold and glass (Nicolo paste)

RING SIZE:    4  (US)      H 1/2  (UK)

SIZE: 19mm x 23mm x 2mm (bezel 12mm x 11mm x 5mm)

WEIGHT:  5.75 grams

PROVENANCE: Formerly in a private collection, West Sussex. UK.