Ca. 4th-5th century AD 
A substantial Byzantine gold ring featuring a round-sectioned hoop and a rectangular bezel set with a deep red garnet. The stone presents an unusual cutting, with clean geometrical faceting typical of 14th Century Venetian style. Two long horns with pearls extend from the shoulders, both original to the piece. Gold scrolls with gold granules further decorate the sides. Overall a very remarkable example.


Provenance: London private collection; formerly ex. Parthenon gallery, acquired in the 1990s.