Authentic Ancient Roman Intaglio 1st-2nd Century AD on Carnelian depicting Helmeted Head of Goddess Athena

• Authentic Ancient Roman Intaglio 1st-2nd cent AD • Gemstone: Carnelian • Size: 7 1/2 US Adjustable • Band material: Gold 18KT - Sterling silver 925 • Handmade 100% Made in Italy
£2,646.00

This exquisite 18 Kt gold and sterling silver ring showcases an authentic Roman intaglio on carnelian, dating back to the 1st-2nd century AD. The intaglio beautifully captures the helmeted head of the revered goddess Athena, known as Minerva to the Romans.

Athena, the goddess of wisdom, war, and craftsmanship, held a special place as Zeus' favorite daughter among the Olympian gods. Legend has it that she was born fully grown and fully armed from Zeus' head after he had swallowed her mother, the goddess Metis, who was pregnant. Athena's wisdom, courage, and resourcefulness were renowned, making her a figure of great admiration.

Epithets such as Pallas (girl) and Parthenos (virgin) highlighted Athena's pure and chaste nature. Unlike other gods and goddesses, she refrained from engaging in illicit relationships with divinities, demigods, or mortals. Athena was also known as Promachos, representing her strategic and defensive approach to warfare, in contrast to her more aggressive and war-loving brother Ares. She was revered for her military prowess and her swift retribution against acts of impiety.

The transformation of Medusa into a Gorgon serves as a powerful testament to Athena's formidable nature. She was not to be trifled with, and her sense of justice was unwavering. The Achaean heroes who desecrated her sanctuary and captured Troy faced her righteous wrath.

In addition to her martial attributes, Athena was the patron goddess of household crafts, gifting mortals with skills in cooking and sewing. Often depicted as a warrior goddess donning a spear, shield, and helmet, Athena's iconic Aegis cloak or shield adorned with the head of Medusa symbolized her protective power.

Athena's status as the patron goddess of Athens was established when she triumphed over Poseidon in a contest. Poseidon gifted the city with the horse, while Athena bestowed the olive tree. Recognizing the greater value of the olive tree, the people of Athens declared Athena their patron and embraced her as a symbol of their city's prosperity and wisdom.

Our jewelry store, Serra Roma, proudly presents an exquisite collection that beautifully honors the ancient traditions of Greek and Roman civilizations. Each piece in our collection, including authentic ancient Roman and Greek coins and intaglios, is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, providing proof of its historical significance and origin.