Ancient Roman Bronze Ring - Geometric Zigzag Pattern (No reserve price)
05
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Current bid
€ 60
No reserve price
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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 Bidder 1781 | €60 | |
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Ancient Roman bronze ring from the 1st–3rd century AD, with a rectangular bezel engraved with a geometric zigzag pattern; weight 3.06 g, inner diameter 17.8 mm, in excellent condition.
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Description from the seller
Ancient Roman Bronze Ring with Geometric Zigzag Pattern, 1st–3rd Century AD
This rare ancient Roman bronze ring, dating to the 1st–3rd century AD, features a simple band with a rectangular bezel engraved with a zigzag or interlocking diamond pattern, a geometric motif that adds both aesthetic appeal and potential symbolic depth. The compact design and durable bronze construction make it a fine example of everyday Roman jewelry, suitable for wear by soldiers, merchants, or civilians.
Symbolism & Historical Significance:
Zigzag Pattern: In ancient Roman art, geometric engravings like zigzags or diamonds often symbolized protection, energy, or natural forces such as lightning (evoking Jupiter's thunderbolt) or water waves, serving apotropaic purposes to ward off evil or invoke divine favor. Such motifs could also represent woven patterns or abstract borders, reflecting influences from Etruscan and Greek designs, where repetition conveyed balance and infinity. On rings, these patterns might have acted as personal seals or talismans, blending functionality with superstition in a society where jewelry conveyed status and spiritual safeguarding.
Connection to Ancient Rome:
Rings with engraved geometric bezels were common across the Roman Empire, produced in workshops from Italy to the provinces, and often found in archaeological sites like Pompeii or military camps. The zigzag design parallels motifs on pottery, mosaics, and other artifacts, highlighting the era's emphasis on simple yet meaningful ornamentation amid daily life, trade, and conquests.
Condition:
Intact with a natural dark sand patina and minor earthen deposits from age, highlighting the engraved pattern clearly; light wear adds to its authentic historical character.
Dimensions:
Inner Diameter: 17.8 mm
Weight: 3.06 g
Provenance
From a former European private collection, acquired in the 1980s.
A declaration of legal origin and provenance document can be provided as a PDF upon request.
Note: Please examine the provided images for a detailed impression of the ring. The photos are highly magnified to showcase the details the best way possible; otherwise, the piece is even more beautiful and attractive in person.
Seller's Story
As a second-generation history enthusiast and antique art collector, I have a deep passion for historical artifacts—from prehistoric civilizations to the Medieval era. I love connecting with fellow history lovers and sharing unique, carefully selected pieces. My goal is to find new homes for remarkable items while continuing to expand my own collection. Feel free to explore my selection—I hope you find something special!
Ancient Roman Bronze Ring with Geometric Zigzag Pattern, 1st–3rd Century AD
This rare ancient Roman bronze ring, dating to the 1st–3rd century AD, features a simple band with a rectangular bezel engraved with a zigzag or interlocking diamond pattern, a geometric motif that adds both aesthetic appeal and potential symbolic depth. The compact design and durable bronze construction make it a fine example of everyday Roman jewelry, suitable for wear by soldiers, merchants, or civilians.
Symbolism & Historical Significance:
Zigzag Pattern: In ancient Roman art, geometric engravings like zigzags or diamonds often symbolized protection, energy, or natural forces such as lightning (evoking Jupiter's thunderbolt) or water waves, serving apotropaic purposes to ward off evil or invoke divine favor. Such motifs could also represent woven patterns or abstract borders, reflecting influences from Etruscan and Greek designs, where repetition conveyed balance and infinity. On rings, these patterns might have acted as personal seals or talismans, blending functionality with superstition in a society where jewelry conveyed status and spiritual safeguarding.
Connection to Ancient Rome:
Rings with engraved geometric bezels were common across the Roman Empire, produced in workshops from Italy to the provinces, and often found in archaeological sites like Pompeii or military camps. The zigzag design parallels motifs on pottery, mosaics, and other artifacts, highlighting the era's emphasis on simple yet meaningful ornamentation amid daily life, trade, and conquests.
Condition:
Intact with a natural dark sand patina and minor earthen deposits from age, highlighting the engraved pattern clearly; light wear adds to its authentic historical character.
Dimensions:
Inner Diameter: 17.8 mm
Weight: 3.06 g
Provenance
From a former European private collection, acquired in the 1980s.
A declaration of legal origin and provenance document can be provided as a PDF upon request.
Note: Please examine the provided images for a detailed impression of the ring. The photos are highly magnified to showcase the details the best way possible; otherwise, the piece is even more beautiful and attractive in person.
Seller's Story
As a second-generation history enthusiast and antique art collector, I have a deep passion for historical artifacts—from prehistoric civilizations to the Medieval era. I love connecting with fellow history lovers and sharing unique, carefully selected pieces. My goal is to find new homes for remarkable items while continuing to expand my own collection. Feel free to explore my selection—I hope you find something special!
Details
Era
Before 1400
Culture
Ancient Roman
Metal
Bronze
Century/ Timeframe
1st–3rd Century AD
Acquired from
Private collection
Total weight
3.06 g
Year acquired
2024
Condition
Excellent condition - barely used with minimal signs of wear
Country acquired from
Europe
Previous owner acquired from
Inherited
Title additional information
Geometric Zigzag Pattern
Previous owner - year acquired
1980
Previous owner - country acquired from
Europe
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
