Late Roman Bronze Ring with Bust

5TH-6TH CENTURY A.D.

1 1/8 in. (8.85 grams, 29.60 mm overall, 17.30 x 20.72 mm internal diameter (approximate size British O, USA 7, Europe 14.98, Japan 14)).

Substantial hoop with a raised rectangular bezel bearing a profile bust facing left, flanking inscription '+VI[R]TVS' (Value)

Provenance

Ex German art market, 2000s.
Acquired from an EU collector living in London.
From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

Literature

Cf. Hadjadj, R., Bagues Merovingiennes - Gaul du Nord, Paris, 2007, item 571, for type.

Footnotes

The ring seems to underline military virtue (virtus), and it can be assumed that it was given as a gift to a soldier for an act of courage, or as a reward for an undertaking of a certain value. The bust could represent an imperial figure.

CONDITION

VETTING:

TimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process

AUCTIONS:

TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.

LOT 0599