ROMAN FINGER RING

43

Copper alloy and glass finger ring. Cast D section band with layered inset oval intaglio bezel measuring 12.3mm by 9.5mm, with the surface of the stone flush with that of the band, Henig type 2. The band narrows sharply once past the shoulder, achieving its narrowest width (3.9mm) opposite the bezel. The stone appears to be of layered dark (?blue) glass and white glass, and the engraving cuts into a field of white fringed with the darker tint to reveal its subject in the darker tint. This may imitate a nicolo gem stone. Thanks to wear, and possibly to simple execution, the subject is now uncertain. It appears to be a male figure standing right with a brimmed hat or helmet. The right arm is extended downwards to hold a weighty object - perhaps a moneybag were the subject Mercury - while either the other arm or a staff, spear or wand projects, now appearing as if held aslant under the same arm. Suggested date: Early Roman, 40-200.Internal Diameter (long axis): 19.5mm, Height: 19.2mm, Width (at bezel): 14.4mm, Thickness (at shoulder): 3.1mm, Weight: 6.73gms.