Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A beautiful over 23-karat (96.08%) gold ring set with a carnelian intaglio of a bird depicted standing in profile and facing left, with a puffed chest, pointed beak, and crested head; the feathers of its wing and tail carefully delineated with petite incised strokes. The rich vermillion hue of the stone elegantly complementing the warm luster of the gold, the dazzling ornament is comprised of a slender band and a prominent, conical bezel with a tiered periphery and a bauble-adorned shoulder. Birds were important in ancient Rome, where the practice of augury involved watching birds to predict the will of the gods. Some birds were considered sacred and were subject to protective taboos. Other birds were associated with particular gods, and their appearance was considered an omen. Size of intaglio: 0.3" Diameter (0.8 cm); of ring: 1" L x 0.8" W (2.5 cm x 2 cm); US ring size: 5; gold quality: 96.08% (equivalent to over 23 karats); weight: 2.9 grams

Provenance: ex-Davis collection, Houston, Texas, acquired before 2013 from various auction houses in London and New York

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#153723

Some bending to band and setting of ring with small fissure and indentations to setting. A few tiny abrasions to intaglio; none of which affect imagery. Intaglio is set at slight slant in bezel but does not appear to have any chips to periphery. Otherwise, intact, excellent, and wearable with good remaining detail. Some earthen encrustations in areas.