Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A fine pair of 97% (23K+) gold hoop earrings, each nearly circular with one terminal end coiled back on itself to form the catch loop. Hoop earrings on occasion were ornamented with finials representing animals, Maenads (the intoxicated women also known as Bacchae), slaves, or the Greek god Eros. The twisting wire here is reminiscent of serpents which symbolized immortality and were a popular Roman motif. These hoops are wearable with modern sterling and 14K gold-plated ear hooks. These earrings are elegant but simple enough for everyday wear! Size of hoops: 0.71" Diameter (1.8 cm); quality of gold: 97% (equivalent to 23K+); quality of gold hook plating: 58.3% (equivalent to 14K); total weight of both: 4 grams

Provenance: private Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection, acquired from New York, USA dealer, before 2010

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#162836

Hoops are in excellent condition with only slight bending of forms. Original catches do not function, but wearable with modern sterling gold plated ear hooks.