Sassanian Amethyst Intaglio Ring
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From the Journal
Intaglio Rings and Jewellery: A Collector's Guide
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A rare Sassanian-period gold ring, circa 500 AD, set with an amethyst intaglio carved with the image of a mythical beast, most likely a lion - a central symbol of royal and divine power in the Sassanian Empire. The amethyst, cut as a domed cabochon, shows distinct internal striations and subtle zoning from deep violet to pinkish-purple, which shimmer under changing light.The ring itself weighs 8.74 g and is constructed in high-karat gold with a hollowed, rounded hoop and a truncated conical bezel, tapering elegantly into the shank. This form is consistent with Sassanian workmanship, but it also shows affinities with neighbouring Byzantine and Late Roman styles, suggesting possible cross-cultural influence or even the remounting of a Sassanian gem in a Byzantine gold setting. The Sassanians and Byzantines maintained extensive trade and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road, and similar combinations of Sassanian intaglios set into neighbouring cultural ring types are well-documented.Details
- Date: c. 6th century A.D.
- Culture: Sassanian Empire
- Material: High carat gold (tests as c.22–24k)
- Gem: Amethyst cabochon intaglio, 10 × 8 × 4 mm, engraved with a lion or mythical beast
- Dimensions: Bezel diameter 1.0 cm; hoop 2 mm at back; ring size UK M / US 6.25
SymbolismThe lion was one of the most enduring symbols in Sassanian art, associated with both royal power and divine protection. Its depiction on a personal intaglio seal would have underscored the authority and prestige of its owner, while also serving the practical function of authenticating documents and correspondence in wax or clay.For a closely related Sassanian amethyst intaglio ring, Elias S. David Collection, sold at Christie’s, New York, 8 December 2015, lot 195.ConditionExcellent condition for its age. Some minor surface wear to the amethyst, commensurate with antiquity. Hoop structurally sound with light surface patina.
A rare Sassanian-period gold ring, circa 500 AD, set with an amethyst intaglio carved with the image of a mythical beast, most likely a lion - a central symbol of royal and divine power in the Sassanian Empire. The amethyst, cut as a domed cabochon, shows distinct internal striations and subtle zoning from deep violet to pinkish-purple, which shimmer under changing light.
The ring itself weighs 8.74 g and is constructed in high-karat gold with a hollowed, rounded hoop and a truncated conical bezel, tapering elegantly into the shank. This form is consistent with Sassanian workmanship, but it also shows affinities with neighbouring Byzantine and Late Roman styles, suggesting possible cross-cultural influence or even the remounting of a Sassanian gem in a Byzantine gold setting. The Sassanians and Byzantines maintained extensive trade and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road, and similar combinations of Sassanian intaglios set into neighbouring cultural ring types are well-documented.
Details
- Date: c. 6th century A.D.
- Culture: Sassanian Empire
- Material: High carat gold (tests as c.22–24k)
- Gem: Amethyst cabochon intaglio, 10 × 8 × 4 mm, engraved with a lion or mythical beast
- Dimensions: Bezel diameter 1.0 cm; hoop 2 mm at back; ring size UK M / US 6.25
Symbolism
The lion was one of the most enduring symbols in Sassanian art, associated with both royal power and divine protection. Its depiction on a personal intaglio seal would have underscored the authority and prestige of its owner, while also serving the practical function of authenticating documents and correspondence in wax or clay.
For a closely related Sassanian amethyst intaglio ring, Elias S. David Collection, sold at Christie’s, New York, 8 December 2015, lot 195.
Condition
Excellent condition for its age. Some minor surface wear to the amethyst, commensurate with antiquity. Hoop structurally sound with light surface patina.
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