Description:

Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 2nd century CE. A marvelous silver ring in the form of a coiled serpent featuring a tapering body with incised, lattice-motif scales and a huge, lozenge-shaped head showing annular eyes. Crafted from a single piece of silver, the snake's scales are intricately engraved, with delicate attention to detail, on the upper portion of the ring, creating a lifelike texture that shimmers in the light. The interior of the ring has been carefully smoothed and worked for maximum comfort during wear, ensuring that the wearer can appreciate the beauty of the ring without discomfort. Size: 1.1" Diameter (2.8 cm); US ring size: 12.25; silver quality: 94.1%; weight: 7 grams

Snake rings, like this example, have a long history in Roman culture, with serpents being a common motif in Roman jewelry. Snakes were often associated with regeneration and renewal and were seen as symbols of power, wisdom, and protection. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Roman snake rings were also believed to have protective and magical properties. It was believed that the serpents coiled around the finger would act as guardians against evil spirits and bad luck, making these rings not just beautiful adornments, but also powerful talismans.

Provenance: ex-private UK collector, ex-German art market pre-2000.

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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#190612

  • Condition: Some light surface wear and slight patina as shown, but otherwise, intact, excellent, and wearable with good preservation of incised detail.

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Shipping

SHIPPING LOGISTICS: As a courtesy to our clients worldwide, Artemis Gallery is happy to handle shipping for most lots sold, taking the hassle (and high cost!) out of having to arrange shipping on your own. Shipping costs will be added to your invoice at auction's end based on information given when you registered to bid - we strive to offer the most economical shipping costs to ensure safe transit. Our shippers of choice are DHL for International shipments and UPS for domestic shipments, but we are able to ship via other carriers at the buyer's expense as deemed necessary or by request.

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December 6, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000