Roman Gold Necklace
This Roman Gold Necklace has a very distinctive wheel clasp surrounded by a golden Helicoidal spring like wire design.
This type II, Variant 1 Golden Necklace is a single loop-in-loop chain of 49 twisted eight-shaped links, made of thin round gold wire. The ends are held together by hollow cylinders made of thin plate gold with horizontal fluting, to which the hoop-with-hook clasp is twisted into connecting with the rest of the chain. Very well persevered, Circa 2nd to Mid 3rd century AD, as very similar gold chains have been discovered and dated to this time period.
To find similar Instances of the chain design found in this necklace, for reference to similar chain necklaces from the British Museum as well as Antiquity Museum in Berlin [Nos 2734, 2727, pl. LIX, Nos 2738, 2745, pl. LXI; 114, 30, No 2 Talb.24, 95, 37, No 4, Tabl. V, 4;105] Please also see Cat. No 80, 94, 101, 111, 132, 140, 141, 195, 286 within “Ogden, Jack. Jewellery of the Ancient World / Jack Ogden. New York: Rizzoli, 1982. Print”. There has also been three very similar intenances excavated in Keban, Agin in the early 70’s see ref. Ruxer & Kubczak, pl. XL/2; Pfeiler, pl. 19; Seipel, p. 107 No. 145; Siviero 1, no. 140,141 as well as Ruxer & Kubczak, pl. LVII/1; Pfeiler, pl. 19; Seipel, p. 113 no 154. C.F. Bingöl, F. R. Işik, and Anadolu Medeniyetleri Müzesi. 1999. Ancient Jewellery : Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Ankara: General Directorate of Monuments and Museums: Pg 20.
Weight: 15.32 dwt or 23.83 Grams
Length: 42.23 cm or 16 5/8th Inches
Clasp Diameter: 1.8 Cm
Provence: Freemen’s and Hindman Auctions: Sale 1343 - Antiquities and Ancient Art: Lot 236, Private Illinois Collector, Fortuna Fine Arts, New York, prior to 1990.
Published: J. Ogden, A Golden Past: Jewelry from the Ancient World (Catalogue), 1990, p. 42, no. 200.
Other Similar Pieces:
Bingöl, F. R. Işik, and Anadolu Medeniyetleri Müzesi. 1999. Ancient Jewellery : Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Ankara: General Directorate of Monuments and Museums: Cat. no 133, 134 & 138
Similar Roman Gold Necklace sold in 2012: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5628159
Similar Roman Gold Necklace with Wheel Clasp sold in 2011: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5509405
Similar Roman Gold necklace sold in 1998: https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-1300269
Similar Roman Gold with Emerald Necklace sold in 2014: https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2014/antiquities-n09236/lot.15.html
Roman Gold Bracelet
This heavy Roman gold bracelet consisting of a tapering rod with each of the ends overlapping one another to end in twisted terminals. This is characteristic of Type I Roman bracelets, with this type of overlap twist bracelet’s first appearing in the later Hellenistic period and continued being worn throughout the Roman period, however due to the solidarity and the proportions of this piece, it points to a earlier roman date most likely between the 1st and 2nd century A.D. Many of these representations indicate that they were typically worn with the overlapped part on the upper side of the wrist. Egyptian funerary depictions often show them worn in pairs, with up to three on each wrist. Cf. S. Walker & M. Bierbier, Ancient Faces, Mummy Portraits from Ancient Egypt, London, 1997, pp 175-6, no 218, as well as Cf. Jack. Jewellery of the Ancient World / Jack Ogden. New York: Rizzoli, 1982. Print
Weight: 29.65 Grams
Width 2 1/2 inches
Maximum Diameter of 6.2 cm
Provenance:
Freemen’s and Hindman Auctions: Sale 1343 - Antiquities and Ancient Art: Lot 222, Private Illinois Collector, Fortuna Fine Arts, New York, prior to 1990.
Published:
J. Ogden, A Golden Past: Jewelry from the Ancient World (Catalogue), 1990, p. 36, no. 171.
For type see: Pg 153 Ogden, Jack. Jewellery of the Ancient World / Jack Ogden. New York: Rizzoli, 1982. Print.
Similar Pieces:
This similar piece sold in 2001: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-2034921?ldp_breadcrumb=back
This similar piece sold in 2003: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-4170779
This similar piece sold in 2010: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5385611
This similar piece sold in 2012: https://www.bonhams.com/auction/20668/lot/226/a-roman-gold-bracelet/
Also see:
Similar piece in Berlin, pl. 62C in Higgins, Greek and Roman Jewellery.
Similar Piece in Pg 153 Ogden, Jack. Jewellery of the Ancient World / Jack Ogden. New York: Rizzoli, 1982. Print
A Roman Silver Bracelet, most likely Circa 2nd century AD
A Type I, Variant 2 Roman bracelet with an circular hoop, open-end fastened, made oof a thick plate with a concave outer surface decorated with numerus markings arranged is various designs with thinned outs at the ends to form a rounded tetrahedral wire to overlap the paralleled side to form a decoration of two horizontal spirals with four coils. These decorative spirals are a revival of the earlier Hellenistic traditions in ancient Roman Jewelry, with some of the earliest examples coming out of Apollonia in the 3rd Century BC. Very similar bracelets have been known from the Dacian treasures from Sioera, Senereus, Feldioara and Poiana, all being dated from periods between the 1st century BC and the 1st century AD, as well as from the Kerch necropolis around 1st-2st AD. Other Reliably dated silver bracelets from the 2nd century from the Bazaurt Treasure, as well as numerous gold versions as well.
Item #509
Size/Width: 9.53 cm (3 3/4th inches)
Weight: 92.34 grams
Provenance:
Freeman & Hindman’s Sale 1315, Jewelry Through the Ages: Ancient to Neoclassical, Lot 104, Private Collection (1926-2019), Chicago, formed in the 1970s-2000s
Reference:
C.F: Ogden, Jack. Jewellery of the Ancient World / Jack Ogden. New York: Rizzoli, 1982. Print. PG, 61-68 & Cat. No 141
Very similar versions Silver and Gold versions:
See similar pair of silver bracelets sold in 2012: https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-a-pair-of-roman-silver-bracelets-circa5628145/?from=salesummary&pos=87&intObjectID=5628145&sid=164b46bc-cba4-43f4-99f2-5e06b09ee93b
See another similar pair sold in 2018: https://www.christies.com/lot/two-roman-silver-bracelets-circa-2nd-century-6150983/?intObjectID=6150983&lid=1
See another similar pair sold in 2014: https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-5826742?ldp_breadcrumb=back&intObjectID=5826742&from=salessummary&lid=1
See another similar bracelet only in gold sold for nearly 20,000 GBP: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5826743
A Hellenistic Gold, Rock Crystal, and Glass Necklace
This exquisite Hellenistic gold and rock crystal necklace, dating from the 2nd to 1st century BC, is a stunning testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the ancient world. Combining the luxurious allure of gold with the timeless beauty of rock crystal, this necklace encapsulates the elegance and sophistication of Hellenistic jewelry design.
What is Ancient Rock Crystal? Rock crystal is a term used to describe clear, colorless quartz, which has been valued throughout history for its beauty and versatility. In ancient times, rock crystal was highly prized and used in various cultural, artistic, and practical applications. Here's a closer look at what makes ancient rock crystal special and how it was used.
Rock crystal is a pure form of quartz (SiO₂), known for its transparency and clarity. Unlike other forms of quartz that may contain impurities causing color variations, rock crystal is typically free from significant impurities, resulting in its clear, glass-like appearance.
The Greeks and Romans were fascinated by the clarity of rock crystal. They crafted it into drinking vessels, jewelry, and decorative items. Rock crystal was also used in Roman mosaics and as inlay for furniture and other luxurious items. It was also widely used in ancient jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. Its clear, sparkling appearance made it a popular choice for adornment.
Circa 2nd-1st Century B.C
Weight: 33.7 dwt or 52.41 Grams
Length: 42.55 cm or 16 3/4th Inches
Provence: Freeman’s and Hindman Auction: Sale 1343 - Antiquities and Ancient Art: Lot 233, Fortuna Fine Arts, New York, 1992 (The Gift of the Gods, p. 53, no. 68)
Some Historical Context about the Hellenistic period:
The Hellenistic period, following the conquests of Alexander the Great, was marked by a fusion of Greek culture with the influences of Egypt, Persia, and India. This era saw the proliferation of wealth and luxury, with art and jewelry reflecting the opulence and cosmopolitan nature of Hellenistic society.
Other Similar Pieces:
There is also an example of a very similar type of rock crystal necklace in “Ancient Jewellery : Museum of Anatolian Civilizations” that came out of Batman, Turkey that dates to the Urartian age. Cat. No. 112 Pages 113. C.F: Bingöl, F. R. Işik, and Anadolu Medeniyetleri Müzesi. 1999. Ancient Jewellery : Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Ankara: General Directorate of Monuments and Museums.
Similar Hellenistic Gold and Crystal Necklace sold in 2011: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5509340
Similar Roman Gold and Garnet Necklace sold in 2013: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5753555
Similar Gold and Rock Crystal Necklace sold in 2007: https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-5004628
Similar Glass Bead and Rock Crystal Necklace sold in 2013: https://www.bonhams.com/auction/20670/lot/201/a-glass-bead-and-rock-crystal-necklace/
10th-14th Century Religious Byzantine Ring
A wearable 10th-14th Century Bronze Byzantine Ring with Latin/Greek inscriptions with the words “KYRIE” which is the Latin transliteration of the Greek word “KYRIOS’ which roughly translates to “Lord” or “God” with the rest of the translation standing for “Beautiful” the entire inscription reads God or Lord is beautiful.
The inscription "KYRIE"/”KYRIOS” reflects the term used in the New Testament and ancient greek to signify supremacy and authority, often referring to God. The Greek word "kurios" has had multiple meanings in the past.
Sir: A polite title (e.g., Matthew 27:63).
Master/Owner: Title of respect (e.g., Matthew 10:24).
Husbands: Used to denote authority within a household (e.g., 1 Peter 3:6).
Idols: Paul refers to idols as "kurios" (e.g., 1 Corinthians 8:5).
The LORD (Yahweh or Jehovah): Equated to the divine name (e.g., Acts 15:40).
Jesus Christ is frequently referred to as "kurios" in the New Testament, highlighting both his humanity and divinity (e.g., Philippians 2:10-11, Romans 10:9). The inscription on the ring emphasizes the divine nature of "kurios," celebrating the beauty of the Lord. However due to the relative age and relative inscription, I believe this particular piece is referring to the Lord/God.
In the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible (Christian Old Testament), the term kyrios is used approximately 7,000 times, most notably as a translation for the name YHWH (the Tetragrammaton). In the Koine Greek New Testament, kyrios appears around 740 times, typically in reference to Jesus. When early followers of Jesus proclaimed "Jesus is Lord," it was a bold declaration. In the context of early Christianity, this confession of Jesus Christ as their kyrios signified a deliberate rejection of the emperor's authority.
Item #107
Size: USA 8, UK Q 1/4, FN 57, GE 18, Japan: 16, Swiss 17
Weight: 4.06
Provence: Dr. Lipkin of Collector Antiquities (Member of the ADA)
Blue Roman Glass Bracelet
This stunning bracelet, crafted from around the 2nd to 4th century is made of delicate blue glass, is a remarkable example of Roman glasswork from antiquity. The bracelet's deep azure hue is both striking and serene, reflecting the refined taste and advanced techniques of Roman artisans. Adding to its allure, the bracelet features a golden iridescence that shimmers in the light
The bracelet features a smooth, rounded shape that fits comfortably on the wrist, showcasing the Roman mastery of glassblowing and molding. The glass surface exhibits a subtle iridescence, a result of centuries of natural aging and interaction with the elements, giving it a unique, shimmering quality that changes with the light.
Roman glassware was highly prized in antiquity for its beauty and utility. Glass bracelets like this one were popular fashion accessories among Roman women, symbolizing wealth and status. The vibrant blue color was achieved using cobalt, a rare and valuable mineral, further enhancing the bracelet's desirability and significance.
Length/Width: 63mm
Weight: 7.9 grams
Provence: Dr. Lipkin of Collector Antiquities (Member of the ADA)
Green Roman Glass Bracelet
This exquisite translucent green glass bracelet, adorned with a captivating golden iridescence, is a stunning example of Roman artistry from the 2nd to 4th centuries. The bracelet's delicate green hue, combined with its shimmering golden surface, creates a mesmerizing visual effect that captures the light beautifully, enhancing its allure.
In Roman society, glass jewelry, including bracelets like this one, had widespread appeal. The affordability of glass jewelry allowed even less affluent Romans to emulate the fashion trends set by the imperial and aristocratic elite. This democratization of luxury meant that many could enjoy beautiful, well-crafted accessories without the high cost of precious metals and gemstones. Roman glassmakers were highly skilled artisans who perfected the craft of glassblowing and glass molding. The use of translucent green glass with golden iridescence was a popular choice due to its striking appearance and the relative ease with which it could be produced compared to more expensive materials.
The design of this bracelet reflects the influence of imperial and aristocratic fashion on the broader Roman populace. The use of glass enabled craftsmen to replicate intricate designs and styles that would otherwise be reserved for the wealthy. This piece represents the intersection of art, fashion, and social dynamics in ancient Rome.
Despite its age, the bracelet remains in somewhat good and wearable condition. The glass is intact, free from significant cracks or breaks, and retains its original shape and some of its color. The golden iridescence is well-preserved, adding to the bracelet's beauty and charm.
Owning this translucent green glass bracelet with golden iridescence is not just about possessing a piece of jewelry; it is about holding a piece of history. This bracelet is a testament to the ingenuity and aesthetic sensibilities of Roman artisans and offers a tangible connection to the past. Whether you are a collector of antiquities or someone with a profound appreciation for historical artifacts, this bracelet is a valuable addition to any collection.
Circumference: 8.04 Inches
Inner Diameter: 6 1/2 cm
Weight: 12.03
Provence: Dr. Lipkin of Collector Antiquities (Member of the ADA)
