Description:

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. A magnificent pair of gold earrings from ancient Rome (comprised of 80% gold or the equivalent of 18K+). These earrings each display a complex design with three joined beaded bands forming the hoops, a large hemisphere or shield at the front with 4 granules at the bottom edge, and clusters of numerous granules - both large and petite - embellishing the lower end so as to resemble grapes, perhaps in reference to Bacchus (Greek Dionysos) and all who adore wine, the god's nectar! While many ancient Roman jewelry designs resembled those of the Greeks and the Egyptians, the hoop earring as well as the hemispheric motif were purely Roman creations. Size: larger one measures 1.625" L (4.1 cm) from the French hook; hemispheres measure ~ .375" W x .625" H (1 cm x 1.6 cm); weight: 6.5 grams

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Frances Artuner collection, Belgium, acquired in the 1960s

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#143508

  • Condition: Some indentations to hemispheres and granules. Slight bending of hoop forms. Earrings are ancient but fitted to modern findings to make them wearable.

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February 21, 2019 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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