C. 224 to 651 AD. Sassanian. Gold ring with a D-shaped loop into which is set a red gem intaglio bearing a a double portriat of two kings. Seals were used commonly throughout the Sassanian empire which ruled from Afghanistan to Iraq during the third to seventh centuries AD. Seals were used by both members of the elite and ordinary people and bear motifs including portraits of the owner and mythical beings. They were used both to sign official documents and worn around the neck to protect against evil spirits and magic. Superb condition. Wearable.Size: D: 19.1mm / US: 9 1/8 / UK: S; 5.2g; Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.