Late Roman Bronze Ring for Saint Sergios

Broad hoop and integral plaque, incised legend ''[.]AΓIA / CEPΓI' (Saint Sergios); with old collector's catalogue ticket. 6.86 grams, 23.47 mm overall, 19.23 x 15.85 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N, USA 6 1/2, Europe 13.72, Japan 13)



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

The hoop with flaring shoulders and an oval bezel set with a jasper intaglio engraved with a winged Amore (Erote) standing beneath a tree bearing grapevines, another Amore climbing up a ladder propped against the trunk; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 6.77 grams, 22.48 mm overall, 18.92 x 17.38 mm internal diameter (approximate size British R , USA 8 1/2, Europe 18 3/4, Japan 18)



Acquired on the European art market. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13344-257956.

According to A. Furtwängler, the Amores are working on the olive harvest. The vintaging scenes, whether illustrating a realistic portrait of a vineyard or an abstract display of vintaging Erotes working among vine rinceaux, include realistic elements of agricultural practice. The tools and farming implements used, the method of viticulture employed, and the various stages of wine production need to be carefully observed.

A small pale yellow collared globular jug with short neck, angular ribbon handle with two narrow prominent ribs, folded upper attachment to the cylindrical neck, several horizontal lines on the globular body, trefoil mouth. 32 grams, 74 mm



with H.A.C., Basel, prior 1999.

These globular jugs were typical of the Eastern Mediterranean in the late Roman period. The body was often decorated with ornamental threads. The jugs were often used in a manner similar to pilgrim flasks, to collect oil and water from early Christian sanctuaries.