Roman Style Gold Grape Pendant

Broadly rectangular in cross-section and constructed from two sheets of gold; the external hoop carrying an etched decorative design comprised of a row of eight-armed stars in relief with a prominent horizontal line connecting the stars; the internal hoop with Latin inscription in block capitals reading '+FORTES FORTVNA IVVAT' translating to 'fortune favours the brave/strong'; straightened. 1.45 grams, 18.86 mm overall, 16.70 mm internal diameter (approximate size British L 1/2, USA 5 3/4, Europe 11.24, Japan 10)



Found whilst searching with a metal detector in Wingham, near Dover, Kent, UK, on Sunday 8th August 2021. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report for Oxfordshire under reference no.KENT-8F86BC. Accompanied by a copy of the report on find of potential Treasure for H M Coroner with reference no.2021T985. Accompanied by a copy of the letter from HM Senior Coroner for Oxfordshire disclaiming the Crown's interest in the find.

The inscription is a Latin proverb used in the play Phormio by Terence in 151 B.C. It is possible that the inscription was intended as a devotion of loyalty and symbol of pride, instead of being given as a symbol of fidelity.

With an openwork hoop composed of heart-shaped volute scrolls; five pellets to each shoulder supporting an oval bezel with an applied ropework border; red carnelian intaglio engraved with a profile bust of a male wearing a radiate crown, possibly god Sol or a Roman emperor. 8.46 grams, 24.52 mm overall, 19.46 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P 1/2, USA 7 3/4, Europe 16.86, Japan 16)



From a family collection formed in the 1970s-1980s. From the Inglismaldie Castle estate, Angus, Scotland, by descent to the current owner.

Discoid piano-convex stamp with chip-carved cruciform design to the main face including 'ICXC' Christograms; similar to the handle. 84 grams, 12 cm wide



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