Extraordinary Massive Later Sasanian Gold Ring

Indo-Pakistan region.

With biconical elliptical bezel set with a domed cabochon claret garnet intaglio of a Lioness walking left, Venus and a crescent moon above.

Venus in the crescent moon was observed at the time of the harvest, and construed as a sign of bounty and prosperity.

6th - 7th Centuries AD

Height: 32 mm.     (1 1/4 in.)

Width: 26 mm     (1  in.)

Ring size: 7 - 7.5

Acquired from a European collector in July, 1998.

#2441

Published: 

Antiquarium Ltd.; Ancient Treasures II. (New York, 2004) p.38

Comparanda:

Bivar, A.D.H.; Catalogue of the Western Asiatic seals in the British Museum. v.2, pt.2: Stamp Seals. The Sassanian Dynasty (London, 1969) p.72, pl.10 nos. DE 1-6