100-300 AD. A solid gold ring with a circular hoop with scalloped edges and shoulders and an oval-shaped orange carnelian intaglio bearing a snake (left) winding through a tree and eagle (right). The eagle often symbolises the forces of good in Roman art, as it is the symbol of Jupiter, king of the gods in the Roman pantheon; the snake usually stands for evil and in many pieces of ancient art, eagles are depicted in the act of killing snakes. This gorgeous piece probably therefore may once have belonged to a priest of Jupiter or perhaps a soldier, among whom he was a particularly popular god. 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: 17.45mm / US: 7 1/4 / UK: O1/2; 19.6g; Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed before 2000.