Europe, ca. 19th century CE. An antique silver ring with a substantial, rectangular, red carnelian intaglio incised with an eagle, perhaps inspired by the Roman Imperial eagle. The ring setting is comprised of a high quality silver (92% silver) and was finely crafted with extensive engraved decorative motifs around the bezel and upon the shank. Size: intaglio measures .5" W x .625" H (1.3 cm x 1.6 cm); US ring size: 6.75; Total weight: 14.6 grams

In Greek mythology, Zeus is often depicted accompanied by an eagle, because the Aetos Dios was a golden eagle who served as Zeus’ personal messenger and companion. According to some scholars, the eagle was at one time a king named Periphas who was so celebrated that followers honored him like a god. Angered by this, Zeus wanted to destroy him with a thunderbolt; however, Apollo intervened and elected to transform the king into an eagle, and set him beside Zeus' throne. As the Romans adopted much of Greek culture, the eagle became their symbol of the military might.

Provenance: private San Francisco, California, USA collection

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#135201

Intaglio shows normal wear with minor scratches, but the details of the eagle are vivid. Silver ring shows normal wear and a nice patina commensurate with age.