A very rare and unusual  Roman chalcedony cameo set in its original heavy gold ring that is oval in shape. This type of cameo is believed to have been worn to ward off evil spirits, this example is superbly carved with deep set eyes and a bald egg shaped head, the crown surmounted by a tuft of hair and long aquiline nose. Metallurgical analysis (X-ray fluorescence) shows a lack of modern elements in the gold ring.

Provenance, private collection of Mr. R. Unger; previously with a London gallery; acquired in the 1980s on the UK art market.

Ring size 

Weight: 16.3grams

Size: 22.8x17.3mm

All measurements are approximate