This ring is a private seal matrix (Latin secretum) dating between the twelfth and thirteenth centur
This ring is a private seal matrix (Latin secretum) dating between the twelfth and thirteenth century. Private composite seals, such as this example, were highly prized by medieval Europeans and became particularly popular during the twelfth century with wealthy individuals.The ring is inlaid with an engraved Roman gemstone, dating to the early 1st century AD, of orange-red carnelian; a popular stone as it does not stick to hot wax. The intaglio portrays a young Dionysus. -- source link
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