ETRUSCAN BRONZE 'PASSAREDINI' Etruscan culture, c. 4th to 2nd century BC. Masculine ring forged from leaded bronze. The circular accessory features a relatively smooth interior surface as well as columns of three pyramidal spikes surrounding the exterior. Diameter: 33 mm.; Height: 20 mm. AE. Mottled layers of brown and green patina have formed across the surfaces and imbue this ring with a stylish presentation. Generally referred to as 'passaredini' and thus related to the equestrian sphere, this type of bronze object apparently has no certain function.