Origin: Mediterranean
Circa: 100 AD to 300 AD
Collection: Jewelry
Style: Roman
Medium: Bronze and Gold
Additional Information: SOLD
This Ancient Mask Has Been Mounted in a Modern 18 Karat Gold RingThis unusual small mask depicts a face with long wavy locks of hair and deep, baggy eyes. The definition of the eyelids and the crow’s feet wrinkles in the corner of her temples suggest that this woman is of some age. However, the rest of her skin and the areas around her mouth appear quite youthful and taut, suggesting instead that she may be worried of frightened. The general appearance of this woman calls to mind the famed serpent-haired Gorgon Medusa. Surely the grave eyes of this woman would suit Medusa, whose imposing gaze was said to turn anyone who looked at her into stone. Judging from the wide shape of this mask, it appears as though it might have been a decorative button. In Roman times, buttons were most often used on leather garments. Perhaps this mask was used as a button on the leather outfits worn by soldiers underneath their heavy armor. If this were the case, surely the association with Medusa would be quite fitting, for this frightful Gorgon would serve as a powerful talisman in battle. Today, this ancient bronze mask serves as a stunning centerpiece for this modern gold ring. - (FJ.6891)

Antiquities
Ancient Roman