Roman Lead Weight Group

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]'.

With reserved classical profile female bust wearing a crested Corinthian helmet, and a stola fastened on the shoulder by a disc brooch, small mask (gorgoneion) to the breast; reverse degraded. 19 grams, 42 mm



UK private collection, 1980s. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11960-209860.

Bell-shaped with thickened rim and rounded underside. 322 grams, 13.2 cm wide

Usage wear.

Acquired early 1990s. Ex private American collection; thence by descent. Private Swiss collection since 1998.