LOT 0368

Renaissance Carnelian Intaglio of the Roman Emperor Nero in Gold Ring

ITALY, 16TH-17TH CENTURY A.D.

7/8 in. (3.64 grams, 22.23 mm overall, 20.44 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P, USA 7 1/2, Europe 16.23, Japan 15)).

With narrow shank and fleur-de-lys to each shoulder supporting an ellipsoid cell with inset carnelian intaglio profile bust of Nero with solar crown; supplied with a museum-quality impression.

Private collection, Europe.
Acquired on the English art market.

Cf. Chadour, A.B., Rings. The Alice and Louis Koch Collection, volume I, Leeds, 1994, tem 788, for type.

Nero, who reigned as Roman Emperor from 54 to 68 AD, is one of history’s most infamous rulers, known for his extravagant lifestyle, ruthless rule, and controversial actions. Born as Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, he was adopted by his great-uncle, Emperor Claudius, and ascended the throne at the age of 16, initially under the guidance of his mother, Agrippina the Younger, his tutor Seneca, and the Praetorian Prefect Burrus. Early in his reign, Nero promoted arts and cultural projects and enjoyed popularity, but as he gained autonomy, he became increasingly tyrannical. He allegedly ordered the deaths of his mother, wife, and other prominent figures. Nero is often (though likely inaccurately) associated with the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD, after which he blamed and persecuted Christians, marking one of the earliest recorded persecutions of the group. His reign ended in turmoil and revolt, leading to his suicide in 68 AD, which marked the end of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. His legacy remains controversial, remembered as both a patron of the arts and an archetype of a decadent, cruel autocrat.