Ancient Roman Silver Betrothal or Marriage Ring with Facing Busts

Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Beautiful Roman solid silver betrothal seal ring with a silver intaglio with two facing busts. The finely cut design depicts a male and female figure in profile, facing one another, with carefully rendered hairstyles and drapery. The ringband is twisted giving the ring even more eye appeal. -> The intimate paired portrait suggests a representation of a couple, possibly symbolising marriage, partnership or familial bond. Intaglio engraving allowed the image to appear in relief when impressed into wax, enabling the ring to function as a personal seal. Outside diameter: ± 26,4 mm Inside diameter: ± 18 - 21,5 mm Bezel: ± 10,9 mm Condition: good, solid and wearable condition, restored. High quality engravings. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format). -> Double-portrait rings were popular in the Roman world and could commemorate spouses, family members or even idealised figures representing harmony and unity. Such imagery reflects the importance of family identity and personal relationships within Roman society. -> Signet rings served both decorative and practical purposes, acting as markers of status and personal identity while also functioning as seals for documents and correspondence. Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been carefully examined for its material and surface characteristics. Laboratory analysis (e.g. XRF) is not routinely undertaken in private collecting, and destructive testing is avoided as it causes permanent damage to archaeological material. Before modern hallmarking, gold and silver alloys varied depending on local resources, recycling practices and economic conditions.

Estimate:£461.72

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