Ancient Roman gold chain necklace component

Code: 12184

This is an ancient Roman gold filigree necklace component dating to 2nd to 3rd century AD. The wire has been looped to form an openwork design with a heart shaped motif, with a loop at each end. A small fragment of the next link is preserved in one of these. From the design this appears to be the 'O' fastener from a chain, with the opposite end having a hook. A similar fragment of a Roman gold chain has been recorded from Chesterton CAMHER-995025, Piercebridge BM-7E7273 and Walsingham NMS-EB64B8. This is a fragmentary piece but still interesting and as excavated!

OBJECT: Necklace/chain component

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 2nd - 3rd century A.D.

MATERIAL: Gold 

SIZE: 15mm x 11mm x 1mm 

WEIGHT: 1.4 grams

PROVENANCE: Formerly in a private collection, Reims. France.