Ca. 300-400 AD.
A silver gilt phalera. Its form, a symphony of geometry, unveils a hexagonal shape that captivates the eye with its harmonious angles. The centrepiece of this exquisite piece resides within a raised dome, a canvas adorned with a relief six-petalled flower arrangement. The meticulous craftsmanship of the relief flowers unfolds with an artistry that mesmerizes. Each petal, a study in precision, contributes to a harmonious composition that exudes both delicate beauty and refined grandeur. The attachment holes, three in number, serve as silent witnesses to the phalera's historical journey. These apertures, while functional, blend seamlessly with the overall design, adding to the ornamental value without detracting from the aesthetics. The phalera, a term rooted in the ancient Roman lexicon, bore a multifaceted significance. These ornamental discs, often awarded for military valour or worn as symbols of prestige, adorned the attire of Roman soldiers and dignitaries alike. Originating from a time when the Roman Empire held sway, phalerae encapsulated both the grandeur of the state and the valour of its warriors. These decorative emblems, marked by artistic finesse, symbolized a culture's reverence for both ornament and achievement.
Size: L:49.7mm / W:50mm ; 32.96g
Provenance: Private London collection, pre-2000s.