LOT 0200

Greek Hellenistic Gold Hinged Ring with Amethysts

3RD-1ST CENTURY BC

1 3/4" (27 grams, 44mm overall, 21.37mm internal diameter (approximate size British X 1/2, USA 11 3/4, Europe 27.01, Japan 26)).

A large gold two-part finger ring comprising: a carinated D-section balustered lower section with waisted and ledged finials, conical amethyst cabochon to the apex and piriform lateral cells with amethyst inserts, hinge loops above; large hollow bezel, hexagonal in plan with stepped profile, discoid cell with large inset amethyst cabochon.

From an important collection, the property of a Mayfair gentleman; acquired in the 1980s. Supplied with a positive X-Ray Fluorescence metal analysis certificate.

Accompanied by an Art Loss Register certificate.

For a later Roman interpretation of the type, see Marshall, F.H. Catalogue of the Finger Rings, Greek, Etruscan and Roman, in the Department of Antiquities, British Museum, London, 1907, item 843.

The size of the hexagonal bezel, set with a plain but impressively large oval amethyst, combined with a smaller amethyst set in a circular bezel to the underside, indicates that the ring was intended to be worn on the thumb. This is supported by the hinge mechanism on the hoop, which allowed the ring to be fitted securely onto the thumb below the knuckle. The ring is a striking example of the extravagant and ostentatious lifestyles of the rich in the Hellenistic world.