Description:

Roman Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A stunning 92% (equivalent to 22K+) gold earring with a sheet of gold formed into a hollow shield and pyramidal clusters of granules - known as grape clusters - cascading from the bottom. The original earring clasp formed out of the thick wire hoop is intact, but no longer flexible due to the great age - however this earring is still wearable with the addition of a modern 14K gold plated ear wire! Size: 2" L x 0.65" W (5.1 cm x 1.7 cm); gold quality: 92% (equivalent to 22K+); weight: 5.1 grams

Grapes were an essential part of Roman culture. The ancient Romans were the first civilization to cultivate grape vines. Grapes and wine of course were associated with Bacchus (identified in ancient Greece as Dionysos or Dionysus) - the Olympian god of wine, pleasure, ritual madness, ecstasy, and theatre who was sometimes depicted as a bearded adult but alternatively depicted as a youth, with a smooth face. The cult of Bacchus was hugely popular, signifying the freedom created by wine, music, and ecstatic dance. Romans knew the power of partying! Perhaps these were worn to their festivities.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#175444

  • Condition: Single earring as shown. Indentations and abrasions. Tiny tear to verso of gold domed area. Mineral and earthen deposits across surface. Modern ear wire attached and earring is wearable.

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November 17, 2022 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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