Ancient Roman

Ancient Roman Bronze Signet Ring with Palm Tree and Two Human Figures Roman Imperial Period, circa 1st–3rd century AD 6.1 g. and 29.9 × 31.4 mm Diameter: 26.3 mm From a Private European Collection. An exceptional and extremely rare iconographic type of Ancient Roman bronze signet ring, distinguished by a remarkable engraved figural composition. The rectangular bezel depicts a large and prominently rendered palm tree flanked by two human figures, both oriented towards the central tree. The tall trunk is carefully articulated by numerous horizontal divisions and terminates in spreading palm fronds filling the upper field. The complete scene is enclosed within an engraved rectangular border. The combination of a monumental palm tree with two accompanying human figures appears to be exceptionally rare on surviving ancient bronze rings. A remarkably close parallel has been recorded as an Early Roman bronze ring of the 1st–2nd century AD, likewise described as depicting a “Palm Tree and two Human figures beside”. Only very few closely comparable examples appear to have been documented on the antiquities market. The palm tree was a powerful and highly recognizable image throughout the ancient Mediterranean world, associated in different contexts with victory, prosperity, fertility and the eastern provinces of the Roman world. The precise significance of the two figures accompanying the palm on the present ring remains enigmatic, making the composition particularly intriguing. An Ancient Image Brought Back to Life: Especially remarkable is the preservation of the engraved seal. When viewed directly upon the ancient bronze, the miniature composition initially appears subtle. Once impressed into a soft material, however, the original image becomes dramatically clearer: the central palm tree and the two flanking human figures emerge as a complete pictorial scene. This allows us to experience the object much as its owner did nearly two thousand years ago. The engraved bezel was not merely decorative: it was conceived as a negative image intended to create a positive impression, potentially serving as a personal identifying device. The ring survives complete, retaining its original circular hoop and rectangular engraved bezel, with an attractive dark green-brown ancient patina. A fascinating and exceptionally rare Roman signet ring, combining an unusual figural composition, striking palm-tree iconography and the remarkable survival of a still clearly readable ancient seal. Extremely rare iconographic type. An outstanding collector's piece. 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:€375

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