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Ancient Roman

Ancient Roman Legionary Bronze Ring Depicting an Aquila Eagle with Outstretched Wings Roman Imperial Period, circa 1st–3rd century AD Material: Bronze Weight: 5.4 g Bezel: 15.4 mm Dimensions: 22.1 × 21.5 mm From a Private European Collection. A very rare and exceptionally attractive Ancient Roman bronze ring featuring a magnificent engraved eagle with outstretched wings, a powerful symbol closely associated with the military might, honour and victorious legions of the Roman Empire. The impressive bezel displays a finely engraved eagle in a commanding frontal position, its wings extending symmetrically to either side. The carefully executed details of the wings, body and surrounding decorative elements create a striking composition of remarkable character. Particularly captivating is the beautiful ancient olive-green and dark brown patina, which accentuates the engraved decoration and gives the ring an extraordinarily atmospheric appearance. The Aquila – The Sacred Eagle of the Roman Legions: Few symbols were as powerful or as deeply revered in the Roman military world as the Aquila, the eagle standard of a Roman legion. The Aquila represented far more than a military emblem. It embodied the honour, identity, unity and fighting spirit of the entire legion. Each legion possessed its own eagle standard, which accompanied its soldiers into battle and served as a sacred rallying point amid the chaos of warfare. The responsibility for carrying and protecting this prestigious standard belonged to the aquilifer, one of the most distinguished standard-bearers within the Roman army. To lose the legionary eagle in battle was considered a devastating disgrace, while its recovery could become an event of extraordinary political and military significance. The famous recovery of Roman standards lost to the Parthians, achieved through diplomacy under Emperor Augustus in 20 BC, demonstrates the immense symbolic importance attached to these sacred military emblems. A Powerful Symbol of Loyalty, Victory and Military Honour: The eagle represented Jupiter, the supreme deity of the Roman pantheon, and was closely associated with imperial authority, divine protection and military victory. For the Roman soldier, the eagle could embody loyalty to his legion, devotion to Rome and the honour of military service. The striking eagle engraved upon the bezel of this ring evokes precisely this powerful tradition of Roman military symbolism. Personal objects decorated with military imagery provided a means of expressing allegiance, identity and pride in the achievements of the Roman army. A ring bearing such an emblem would have carried a particularly meaningful visual message within the military culture of the Roman Empire. Exceptional Engraving and Remarkable Roman Craftsmanship: One of the most impressive characteristics of this ring is the elaborate execution of its central design. The eagle occupies the prominent bezel, its outstretched wings forming a carefully balanced composition within the engraved border. The individual elements of the design remain clearly distinguishable, demonstrating the skill and artistic attention invested in this small bronze object. The decorative craftsmanship extends beyond the bezel itself. Both shoulders of the ring display additional engraved ornamentation, creating an elegant transition between the prominent central motif and the substantial bronze band. These carefully arranged decorative elements give the ring a particularly refined appearance and distinguish it as an attractive example of Roman personal jewellery. The combination of symbolic imagery and ornamental craftsmanship makes this piece especially appealing to collectors of Roman military antiquities. Magnificent Ancient Patina: The ring displays a wonderfully preserved ancient surface with beautiful olive-green, dark brown and subtle earthy tones. The naturally developed patina follows the contours of the bronze and beautifully highlights the engraved eagle and decorative details. Particularly attractive is the contrast between the darker recessed areas and the lighter surfaces of the ancient engraving. This remarkable surface gives the ring an impressive visual depth and enhances its unmistakable ancient character. The Eagle That Followed the Legions Across an Empire: Imagine a Roman legionary stationed along the Rhine or Danube frontier during the height of the Roman Empire. Far from his homeland, surrounded by the demanding realities of military service, he belongs to a disciplined brotherhood united beneath the sacred eagle of his legion. The Aquila accompanies the soldiers during campaigns, military ceremonies and moments of triumph, representing the honour of every man who serves beneath its wings. A bronze ring decorated with an eagle could have served as a personal expression of this powerful military identity. Worn upon the hand, such an object would have provided a constant reminder of the ideals associated with Roman military service: courage, loyalty, discipline and devotion to Rome. Although the original owner of this particular ring is unknown, its striking eagle imagery creates a fascinating connection to the military traditions and symbolic world of Imperial Rome. A Remarkable Collector's Piece of Roman Military History: The exceptional combination of a prominently engraved eagle with outstretched wings, richly decorated shoulders, substantial bronze construction and magnificent ancient patina makes this ring an especially desirable example of Roman jewellery. Its powerful iconography evokes the legendary Aquila standards that accompanied the Roman legions across the vast territories of the Empire. A very rare and highly attractive collector's piece for enthusiasts of Roman military history, legionary symbolism, ancient jewellery and the fascinating material culture of Imperial Rome. I prove that the lot was obtained legally , provenance statement seen by Catawiki Important information. I guarantee that I am entitled to ship this lot. I will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged. I will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days.
Schätzpreis:€325
Zur AuktionAlle Objekte ansehen vonCatawikioderAntike Kunst
Schätzpreis:
€325
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