This Roman silver ring is a beautiful example of the Henig type VIII, under his classifications of ancient rings. Rings of this shape - a round bezel, with keeled shoulders - is typical of the 3rd century AD! The opposite of a cameo, an intaglio is created by carving below the surface to produce an image in relief, with the purpose of pressing into sealing wax. A signet ring can be represented with an intaglio or by a simple smooth seal. Its purpose would have been to sign and seal the wax of a letter or note. The bezel is engraved with the bust of a bearded man facing left and holding a hammer and tongs, with an anvil to his left. This image most likely depicts Vulcan, or Hephaestus, the Roman god of blacksmiths and craftsmen. This ring tests as high-grade silver, with 22K gold signet. A very special intaglio ring, it would look wonderful worn by a woman or man and would make an incredible addition to any collection!
Measurements: The ring has a large finger size 7 but could easily be resized.
Condition: The overall condition of the ring is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the gold setting or intaglio, which is intact and secure.
