Roman Glass Ring with Bezel

The hoop circular in plan and rectangular in cross-section, the sides divide into two segments which separate gradually to form triangular shoulders, on one of the shoulders applied scallop shells with one replaced, four pellets to the base of the bezel; the deep tubular bezel and everted rim decorated with radiating lines, reset with a cabochon garnet. 4.57 grams, 22.24 mm overall, 14.67 mm internal diameter (approximate size British F, USA 2 3/4, Europe 3.67, Japan 3)



Found whilst searching with a metal detector near Great Chart with Singleton, near Ashford, Kent, UK, by Mr Keith Collins on Thursday 5th November 2020. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report with record no.KENT-2D4C88. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's report on a find of potential treasure for H M Coroner with Treasure reference 2021T808, subsequently disclaimed.

Roman rings with circular hoops are categorised by Guiraud (1998) in her typology as Type 4, those with tubular bezels Types 4a- 4d, Type 4c is shown flanked by two pairs of spherical pellets, and with decorative shoulders (p.189, fig.29), however our example is more consistent with Type 4h.

With a keeled hoop having a Greek inscription to both sides beneath the bezel; expanding shoulders with triangular panels engraved with palmettes; tiered bezel, the lower level with incised Greek key design to the short edges, the second level with a zig-zag pattern around the perimeter, the round top part with an incised bird motif. 10.38 grams, 27.41 mm overall, 17.36 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N, USA 6 1/2, Europe 13.72, Japan 13)



Ex London art market, 1990s.

A mixed group of one hundred and seventy single stone tesserae of various colours and sizes. 95 grams total, 4-14 mm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.