Ancient Roman glass Sol Invictus intaglio ring. Centrally set with an oval glass intaglio of Sol Invictus wearing a radiate crown, in a closed back rubover setting with a finely raised border, all to broad trumpeting shoulders which taper to a solid D-shape shank. Tested yellow gold, approximately 9.45g, circa 3rd-4th century AD, accompanied by a museum quality impression.
Sol Invictus translated as the 'unconquered sun' was recognised by the Roman empire as the sun god. Characterised by a crown of radiating beams, the ancient Romans looked to Sol as a powerful deity of warmth, light and strength and thus became the patron of soldiers. At the height of the sun god's popularity coins, jewels, festivities and games were created in his honour.
