Roman Carnelian Figural Gemstone

With intaglio scene of a lion attacking an ibex; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 1.55 grams, 14 mm



From the collection of a Swiss gentleman formed in Europe from 1970-1980s; thence by descent from the family in London.

Rounded bezel with inset jasper gemstone, intaglio scene of a lion pouncing upon a goose taking flight; possibly a marriage or the stone has been displaced due to corrosion in the socket. 7.73 grams, 25.14 mm overall, 18.22 mm internal diameter (approximate size British Q, USA 8, Europe 17.49, Japan 16)



From a collection of a London lady, acquired annually during 1990s-2000s.

Comprising an octagonal band with rounded inside, engraved inscription in Greek on four facets reading 'ΚΟΝ ΑΝΒ /ΟΗΑ ΙΑΤΟ /ΥΥΨ ΙϹΤΟ/ +ΘΚ ΑΤΟΙ', interspersed with a palm branches on the other facets. 2.48 grams, 19.61 mm overall, 17.64 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N, USA 6 1/2, Europe 13.72, Japan 13)



Ex London, UK, collection, 2000s. Accompanied by a copy of a statement of opinion from Striptwist Ltd, a London-based company run by precious metal specialist Dr Jack Ogden, reference number 210711.

This type of ring (type III, Variant 1, of the Ruseva-Slokoska classification) is common among gold and silver examples since the 3rd century A.D. The inscription on our ring, however, shows Christian elements (such as the palm branch) which allow a dating to the 4th-5th century A.D. The inscription '+ΘΚ ΑΤΟΙ /ΚΟΝ ΑΝΒ /ΟΗΑ ΙΑΤΟ /ΥΥΨ ΙϹΤΟ' is not simple to interpret. It could be read as '+Θ(ΕΟΤΟΚ)E A (ΓΙΑ) TOI/ KON(ϹΤ)ΑΝ (TINΩ) B/OH(Θ EI) A(Γ)ΙΑ TO/ Υ ΥΨΙϹΤΟ' = 'Holy Mother of God help Constantine from the heights of your Holiness [Konstantinos being the possible owner of the ring]'.