ROMAN CARNELIAN INTAGLIO DEPICTING YOUNG WINNER OF THE GAMES IN GOLD RING

Ca. AD 50 - 200 . A Roman carnelian intaglio depicting a young athlete with a laurel crown, set in a high carat (21.5 ct), possibly later gold ring with filigree decorations on the shoulders. Chariot racing was one of the most popular and thrilling events in ancient Rome, particularly at the Circus Maximus, the largest chariot racing venue in the city. However, specific records of individual winners of chariot races are sparse, and many of the names of victors have been lost to history. The teams (or factions) that competed in chariot races were known by their colours, such as the Blues (Veneti), Greens (Prasini), Reds (Russati), and Whites (Albati), among others. Size: D:17.93mm / US: 7 3/4 / UK: P; Weight: 12.5g Provenance: Private Central London collection; ex. UK art market 1990s. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.