A High Carat Gold Ring Set With A Roman Red Jasper Intaglio. Mars Gradivus
gold 18k - UK N | US 6¾ - 15 g
Intaglio : 12 × 15 mm ·
Roman Art, 2nd century AD
The ring with flat circular bezel, set with an oval red jasper intaglio of Roman date. The stone, of a fine deep blood-red colour, is engraved with a figure of Mars, god of war, shown in three-quarter view striding to the left. The god is depicted nude and helmeted, in the characteristic pose of the Mars Gradivus type — left leg advanced, body in slight torsion — holding a spear in his right hand and a trophy of arms in his left. The engraving is of fine quality, rendering the god's musculature and crested helmet with precision. The plain gold mount is elegant and restrained, enhancing rather than competing with the stone.
Mars, god of war and tutelary father of Rome, is one of the most frequently represented deities on Roman intaglios. Worn as a signet ring, this intaglio conferred upon its owner the divine protection of the warrior god, while also serving as a personal seal. Red jasper, associated by ancient lapidaries with vigour, courage and protection in battle, is the favoured material for depictions of martial deities. The Mars Gradivus type — the god striding in arms — is attested from the Republican period and became widespread under the Empire, notably following the dedication of the Temple of Mars Ultor by Augustus in 2 BC.
Intaglio : 12 × 15 mm ·
Roman Art, 2nd century AD
The ring with flat circular bezel, set with an oval red jasper intaglio of Roman date. The stone, of a fine deep blood-red colour, is engraved with a figure of Mars, god of war, shown in three-quarter view striding to the left. The god is depicted nude and helmeted, in the characteristic pose of the Mars Gradivus type — left leg advanced, body in slight torsion — holding a spear in his right hand and a trophy of arms in his left. The engraving is of fine quality, rendering the god's musculature and crested helmet with precision. The plain gold mount is elegant and restrained, enhancing rather than competing with the stone.
Mars, god of war and tutelary father of Rome, is one of the most frequently represented deities on Roman intaglios. Worn as a signet ring, this intaglio conferred upon its owner the divine protection of the warrior god, while also serving as a personal seal. Red jasper, associated by ancient lapidaries with vigour, courage and protection in battle, is the favoured material for depictions of martial deities. The Mars Gradivus type — the god striding in arms — is attested from the Republican period and became widespread under the Empire, notably following the dedication of the Temple of Mars Ultor by Augustus in 2 BC.
2 800 €
Period: Before 16th century
Style: Rome and Antic Greece
Condition: Excellent condition
Material: Gold
Reference (ID): 1737290
Availability: In stock
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