Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE; Europe, Neoclassical period, ca. 19th century CE. A gorgeous carnelian intaglio featuring the head of the Greco-Roman god Apollo and mounted in a Neoclassical ring of over 21-karat gold to be wearable. Shown in profile gazing left, the deity embodies the Classical ideal with long, wavy tresses, a long, slender neck, and a youthful visage, all crowned by a wreath or headband. A pair of dashes to the lower left may have been intended to represent archery arrows, a laurel branch, or a musical instrument. The translucent scarlet-colored gem is beautifully complemented by the gold ring which features a border of petite, gold balls and a thick ring band with seashell motifs at each shoulder. A dazzling piece of wearable history! Size of intaglio: 0.7" L x 0.5" W (1.8 cm x 1.3 cm); of ring: 1" Diameter (2.5 cm); US ring size: 7.75; gold quality: 89.8% (21.6 karats); weight: 12.6 grams
Apollo held a significant place in the Roman Empire, having been adopted from Greek mythology. Unlike some other Greek deities whose identities were merged with existing Roman gods, Apollo retained his Greek name and essentially his core attributes. He was revered as the god of music, poetry, healing, prophecy, and light. His worship was particularly promoted during the reign of Augustus, who considered Apollo his patron deity and attributed his victory at the Battle of Actium to him. This led to the construction and enhancement of temples dedicated to Apollo, most notably the Temple of Apollo Palatinus in Rome. Thus, Apollo became a prominent figure in Roman religious life, embodying ideals of culture, health, and divine favor.
Provenance: ex-T.F. Holy Lands collection, formed since the 1960s; ex-London art market, 1990s
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#193227
Condition
Roman intaglio mounted in Neoclassical ring to be wearable. Intact and in excellent overall condition with good preservation of detail.