In Ancient Rome spotting an eagle in the sky was considered a symbol of good luck and assistance from the gods, as this bird is very strong and a phenomenal predator, hence seen as a very good auspicia, a sign of divine benevolence. Furthermore the eagle, aquila in Latin, was used as the official emblem of Rome and the Roman Empire, and was the symbol of the Roman military, representing power and strength. It was also associated with the god Jupiter, the chief deity in the Roman pantheon. Each Roman military legion carried one eagle standard (aquila) and the loss of the eagle was considered a terrible omen. Standards were considered so important and their loss to be such a grave occurrence that the military went to great lengths to recover them, sometime fighting battles just to retrieve them. This particular ring likely belonged to a member of the military elite.
Ancient Roman Silver Ring with Intaglio of an Eagle
£ 500.00
A silver Ancient Roman ring with a yellow glass intaglio in a round bezel setting. The glass is framed by two bands of braided filigree. The inlay shows an image of an eagle perched on a branch; the bird is facing right with its wings spread. The shank consists of a simple round hoop. The eagle was deeply connected with the Roman military since it was a symbol of pride, strength and victory.
UK ring size: M 1/2
Provenance: Ex Japanese collection, deceased gentleman, acquired 1970s-2000s.
Condition: Fine condition, small part of the filigree is now missing, some scratches to the hoop consistent with age.
SOLD
| Weight | 2.61 g |
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| Dimensions | L 2.1 x W 1.9 cm |
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