CASTOR AND POLLUX Authentic Ancient Roman Jasper Intaglio 1st-2nd Cent AD 22Kt Gold Ring
This 22kt gold ring features an authentic Roman yellow jasper intaglio, dating from the 1st–2nd century AD. The engraved jasper depicts the armed Dioscuri, Castor and Pollux, shown in their role as divine protectors of soldiers. According to myth, the twins were born to Leda, queen of Sparta: Pollux, the son of Zeus, was immortal, while Castor, the son of Tyndareus, king of Sparta, was mortal. This combination of mortal and divine lineage made the Dioscuri a potent symbol of the union between humanity and the gods, and a popular motif in Roman art and jewelry.
In Roman mythology and religion, Castor and Pollux were of great importance as protectors of the state and its people. They were especially venerated as guardians of soldiers, travellers, and sailors, and were believed to offer divine aid in battle and during dangerous journeys. Their cult was firmly established at Rome from an early period, and they embodied key Roman values such as brotherhood, loyalty, mutual sacrifice, and military virtus. They are typically represented together, emphasizing their inseparable bond and their role as twin protectors. In many late Republican and Imperial Roman engraved gems, the Dioscuri are shown wearing helmets and short military cloaks rather than the traditional pileus.
The bags or satchels visible in the scene could be interpreted as gathered chlamydes or baltei (belts or straps), or, according to other interpretations, as travellers’ bags, an attribute associated with the twin gods in their role as “saviours” of wayfarers and sailors.
This type of representation is fairly common on Roman signet rings and engraved gems dating from the 1st century BC to the 2nd century AD.
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.
