Roman Iron Ring with Gryllos Gemstone

2ND-3RD CENTURY A.D.

1 in. (9.06 grams, 27.29 mm overall, 20.24 x 16.48 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N 1/2, USA 6 3/4, Europe 14.35, Japan 13)).

Substantial D-section hoop set with a red jasper intaglio with a gryllos motif; supplied with a museum-quality impression. [No Reserve]

Provenance

From an old English collection, Camden, London, UK.

Literature

Cf. Boardman, J., Classical Phoenician Scarabs: A Catalogue and Study, Oxford, 2003, cat. no. 37/18 Tharros pl. 59e (BM ANE 133440), London no. 407, for a similarly-themed motif of a facing bearded head, with an African head to one side over a boar forepart; Boardman, J., 'Greek Gem Engravers, Their Subjects and Style' in Ancient Art in Seals: Essays by Pierre Amiet, Nimet Özgüç, and John Boardman, edited and introduced by Porada, E., Princeton, 1980, 113-114, for discussion.

Footnotes

Grylli motifs usually combine various human and animal heads, sometimes including animal legs.

CONDITION

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LOT 0830