Sard ring stone
Unknown Artist
ca. 1st century BCE–3rd century CE
Medium
Sard
Dimensions
Length: 1/2 in. (1.2 cm)
Classification
Gems
Culture & Period
Roman · Late Republican or Imperial
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of W. Gedney Beatty, 1941
Accession Number
41.160.712
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite sard ring stone, dating from around the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE, exemplifies the masterful gem engraving of Late Republican or Imperial Rome.ved from sard—a durable, reddish-brown variety of chalcedony—this tiny intaglio (just 1/2 inch long) was likely used as a signet for a ring, sealing documents or personal items with its incised design. Such gems were prized possessions among Roman elites, blending practicality with artistry in a portable format. The scene features Nike, the Greek goddess of victory (adopted enthusiastically by Romans), accompanied by horses a...