ROMAN MERCURY INTAGLIO IN GOLD RING

Ca. 1-200 AD
A carnelian intaglio set in a later gold ring, showcasing a skillfully rendered portrait of the god Mercury. As a prominent figure in Roman mythology and religion, Mercury holds a multifaceted significance within the pantheon. Mercury is commonly associated with communication, commerce, travel, and eloquence, making him a central deity in Roman religious and social contexts. In this particular portrayal, Mercury is depicted facing left, capturing the artist's attention to detail in presenting a distinct and lifelike representation. The gaze of the god is depicted with a nuanced complexity, with the artist employing masterful techniques to convey Mercury's divine presence. The gaze may exude a sense of alertness, intelligence, and an aura of confidence, encapsulating the god's associations with cunning and intellect. The intaglio further accentuates the fine features of Mercury's face, carefully carved with precision and delicacy. Notably, the artist has paid special attention to the depiction of the god's hair, etching intricate details that lend a sense of texture and realism to the composition. Depictions of gods in Roman glyptic art served as a means of visual communication, expressing religious beliefs and asserting cultural identities. These representations not only conveyed the physical characteristics of the deities but also encapsulated their associated attributes, powers, and narratives.
Size: D: 17.93mm / US: 7 3/4 / UK: P; 9.89g
Provenance: Private UK collection; Ex. old Swiss family collection formed in the 1990s.
Estimate: GBP 2000 - 3000