Roman Gold Linked Chain

1ST-2ND CENTURY A.D.

18 1/4 in. (28.15 grams, 46.5 cm long).

Loop-in-loop chain, each link formed from two strands of thick gold wire; thick hook with the end coiled about the shank; eye with ribbed detailing and coiled end; housed in a custom-made display case.

Provenance

Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s.
Important North West London collection.

Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11937-210478.

Literature

Cf. Marshall, F.H., Catalogue of the Jewellery, Greek, Etruscan and Roman, in the Department of Antiquities, British Museum, London, 1911, pls.LVIII (no.2734), LIX (no.2727 and especially 2716), LX (2736), and LXI (2738), for the same style of chain rings.

Footnotes

Among the necklaces manufactured from gold mesh (hormoi or chains), there are two recognisable fundamental types: the first, shorter and with endings suitable for being fixed on fabric, was used to adorn clothes, hooked at shoulder height. The second type (like our specimen) was worn around the neck and was generally fitted with a simple hook-and-eyelet closure.

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 0218