Origin: Mediterranean
Circa: 100 AD to 300 AD
Collection: Jewelry
Style: Roman Cameo Ring
Medium: Sardonyx and Gold
Additional Information: Sold
Cameos are hard or precious stones carved in relief. The cameo is usually a gem (commonly agate, onyx, or sardonyx) having two different colored layers, with the figures carved in one layer so that they are raised on a background of the other. The cameo is the converse of the intaglio, which consists of an incised, or sunken, engraving in the same class of materials.Cameos exist in large numbers from the early Sumerian period (c. 3100 BC) to the decline of Roman civilization, from the Renaissance to the Neoclassical period in the 18th century. While Greek cameos were purely decorative (as opposed to intaglios, which were used as seals), Roman cameos were usually carved with portraits and mythological scenes. This stunning cameo represents a lion, a symbol of strength and ferocity associated with kings and rulers since the days of antiquity. The largest of the cat family, this animal is known as the “king of the beasts.” They are equally feared and respected for their power, speed, and intimidating growl. Today, mounted in a gorgeous 18 karat Roman gold ring dating from the 1930’s modeled after Classical examples, this cameo is a stunning centerpiece symbolic of the strength and fortitude of the Roman Empire. - (FJ.7129)

Antiquities
Ancient Jewelry