Late Roman – Early Byzantine Bronze Ring Depicting Adam and Eve with the Tree and Serpent Eastern Mediterranean, c. 4th–6th century AD An exceptional and highly evocative Late Roman to Early Byzantine bronze ring, engraved with a Biblical scene of Adam and Eve flanking the Tree of Knowledge, with a clearly rendered serpent entwined upon the tree — one of the earliest and most powerful narratives of Christian iconography. The oval bezel depicts two schematic human figures positioned on either side of a central tree, upon which the serpent is visible, unmistakably identifying the scene as Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. The simplified, linear engraving style is entirely consistent with Late Antique Christian imagery, where symbolic clarity was prioritised over naturalistic detail. Such rings were worn as personal devotional and protective objects, reflecting the spread and internalisation of Christian belief during Late Antiquity. Biblical imagery of this type is rare on bronze rings and would have carried strong theological and moral significance for the wearer. The ring is cast in bronze and retains a deep, stable archaeological patina, with the engraved scene remaining clearly legible despite its age. The overall form, material, and iconography firmly place this piece within the Early Christian Eastern Roman world. Material: Bronze Period: Late Roman – Early Byzantine Date: c. 4th–6th century AD Culture: Early Christian / Eastern Roman Ring size: approx. R Inner diameter: approx. 18.3 mm Condition: Archaeological condition with stable patina; surface wear consistent with age Provenance: From an old European collection A rare and powerful Early Christian artefact, offering a tangible connection to one of the foundational narratives of Western religious tradition. ****** Dear bidders, please note that we do not ship to the UK or SWITZERLAND or other countries outside the European Union. If you are located outside the EU and win this lot, the sale will unfortunately have to be cancelled. We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding. Enjoy the bidding. (JU14)