Ancient Roman Silver Ring with a Red Jasper Portrait Intaglio

Object Description

A fine Ancient Roman silver ring with a finely carved red jasper intaglio depicting the portrait of a woman. The band of the ring is ovoid and regular, widening towards the intaglio bezel. The carved figure, possibly a noblewoman, faces left and is draped in a palla with her hair in an elaborate updo. The details of her facial features, strands of hair, and the folds of the drapery are carefully rendered with precise incisions. The jasper presents with a solid colour with some black striations.

Closest UK ring size F 1/2.

Date: Circa 2nd Century AD

Object History

From a gentleman’s London, UK, collection in the 1990s.

Object Condition

Good condition. Tarnishing to the metal. Earthy encrustations over the ring and the edges of the intaglio. The portrait is clear and legible.

Object Details