LOT 0002

Roman Gold Ring with Anchor and Dolphins

3RD-5TH CENTURY AD

1" (11 grams, 24mm overall, 18.36mm internal diameter (approximate size British Q, USA 8, Europe 17.59, Japan 17)).

A carinated gold hoop with shoulders formed as opposed dolphins supporting a discoid plaque in their mouths; incised eye detail to each side, notched crests, zigags to the mouths, punched point borders; the bezel dished to the upper face with inset blue jasper plaque, intaglio anchor motif with ring above the stock and another below the tines.

From the private collection of a Mayfair, London, UK, gentleman; acquired in the early 1980s.

Accompanied by an Art Loss Register certificate.

The anchor is an ancient Christian symbol and is seen in a number of contexts such as intaglios as well as painted on the walls of the catacombs. The anchor, because of the great importance in navigation, was regarded in ancient times as a symbol of safety. The Christians, therefore, in adopting the anchor as a symbol of hope in future existence, merely gave a new signification to a familiar emblem; the shape of the anchor is also reminiscent of a cross. The dolphin was also a pagan symbol that was adopted by Christianity. It was seen as a guide and guardian of the dead who carried the soul to the Land of the Blessed.