Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Demeter Holding Ear of Corn
1st-2nd century A.D. Set in a silver mount with beaded edge; the intaglio depicting Demeter draped, advancing left and holding ear of corns in her right hand. Cf. Walters, H.B., Catalogue of Engraved Gems & Cameos, Greek, Etruscan & Roman in the British Museum, London, 1926, no.3342, for similar. 2.21 grams, 19 mm (3/4 in.).

Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Important North West London collection. Demeter and Hecate were linked to the afterlife cult, so it is possible that the ring to which the bezel belonged was a funerary gift. Demeter (Ceres for the Romans) was the Greek goddess of the harvest, the cycle of life and death and sacred law.