An elegant matching pair of Ancient Roman gold earrings, featuring a circular loop, composed of a single gold wire, and a Hercules club-shaped pendant. The pendant is formed of hollow gold sheet, adorned with filigree and granulation along its length. This beautifully rendered pair of earrings testifies to the great refinement and attention to detail of Roman goldsmiths. Weight: 3.8 g.
Date: Circa 1st-3rd Century AD Condition: Complete and intact. These earrings are suitable for modern wear with modern hook or stud applied. Please consult a professional jeweller for any alterations.
As in many ancient societies, jewellery was an important social marker used to demonstrate wealth. Following the spread of the Roman Empire, Roman jewellery became more and more elaborate in the designs and in the materials used, such as precious and semi-precious gemstones. Roman mythology was used as a repertoire of subjects to enrich and adorn necklaces, pins, rings and earrings. This fine pair of earrings is modelled in the shape of the club of Hercules. Together with the lion skin, the club was the main attribute of the Greco-Roman hero, meaning strength and success against the odds.
To discover more about jewellery in the Ancient World, please visit our relevant post: Jewellery in Antiquity.
