SASANIAN BRONZE RING WITH CARNELIAN INTAGLIO
Ca. 224–651 AD.
A bronze ring with a circular band and an elliptical applied bezel with inset cabochon dark purple gem with a beautiful intaglio depicting a female figure facing left with a prominent nose, her hair rolled and tied in a chignon, tresses falling down her back and on her shoulders; a cloak tied is around her chest. She is most likely an aristocratic Sasanian matron. The Sasanian Empire was the last Persian imperial dynasty before the Muslim conquest in the mid seventh century AD. It lasted for over four centuries, from 224 to 651 AD, making it the longest-lived Persian dynasty. The Sasanian Empire succeeded the Parthian Empire, and re-established the Iranians as a superpower in late antiquity, alongside its neighbouring arch-rival, the Roman-Byzantine Empire. The period of Sasanian rule is considered a high point in Iranian history, and in many ways was the peak of ancient Iranian culture before the Muslim conquest. Good condition, fully wearable.
Size: D: 28.35mm / US: 8 1/4 / UK: Q 1/2; 3.8g
Provenance: Private UK collection.
Estimate: GBP 150 - 300