c. 323-31 BC. Greek Hellenistic period. A rare gold ring with a D-shaped hoop, scalloped shoulders and elliptical plate bezel bearing an engraved erotic scene. The bezel shows a male figure (right) engaged in coitus with a female figure (centre) who lies on her back, reclining against a second female figure (left). The second female figure places a crown on the head of the man. The Hellenistic period, which runs from the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC to the battle of Actium is 31 BC, was an era in which Greek-speaking peoples controlled much of the Eastern Mediterranean and Western Asia as far as present-day Afghanistan. This period saw many momentous scientific discoveries and artistic developments, including the creation of intricate jewellery, as this gorgeous piece exemplifies. This beautiful piece may have belonged to an ancient courtesan of the Hellenistic period. In order to confirm its authenticity, this piece has undergone X-Ray Fluorescence analysis by an independent Belgian Laboratory. The samples collected show the chemical composition to reflect the typical metal contents of the described period, whilst also showing no modern trace elements in the patina. Excellent condition; wearable.Size: D: 19.31mm / US: 9 3/8 / UK: S1/2; 16.2g; Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed in the 1980s.