Ancient Roman ring with intaglio of Hermes. Set to centre with an oval carnelian intaglio engraved with the god Hermes standing wearing a wide-brimmed round hat called a petasos, holding the staff of Hermes, caduceus, in right hand, chlamys draped over right arm, and pouch in the left hand, in a closed back Roman set setting, to an striking design featuring a polished bezel and carved shield shapeed shoulders with scrolling motifs leading through to an ornately carved shank with geometric detail. Tested yellow gold, approximately 7.98 grams in weight, circa 2nd-3rd century AD, accompanied by a museum quality seal impression.
One of twelve Olympian gods, Hermes was the Greek god of commerce, travelling, boundaries and luck. In myth, Hermes functioned as the messenger of the gods. His Roman counterpart is the god Mercury.
For similar pieces view Ruseva Slokoska, L, Roman Jewellery, Sofia, 1991, item 184.
