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Georgian Gold & Carnelian Ring With Carved Intaglio of Omphale

869T
Written by Olly Gerrish

A beautiful ring that was made circa 1800-1820. It features a large carnelian that has been carved with an intaglio of Omphale.
In Greek mythology Omphale was the queen of the kingdom of Lydia in Asia Minor.
The story goes that she was the mistress of Heracles (Hercules).
As penalty for his murder of Iphitus, Heracles was, by Zeus’ command, sold as a slave and Omphale became his purchaser. Heracles was forced to do women’s work and even wear women’s clothing and hold a basket of wool while Omphale and her maidens did their spinning. At times Omphale even wore the skin of the Nemean Lion and carried Heracle’s olive-wood club. You can see the lion’s skin on her head in the intaglio.
However having endured many trials the reward for his suffering was to live forever among the Gods on Mount Olympus !
Although fierce and dominant She was undoubtedly very beautiful as is depicted in this intaglio.
The intaglio is in a Roman setting and the shank is plain and flares as it meets the top.
An unusual and special ring.

Item Number
869T
Measurements
Top 2.5cm by 2cm at widest point
Materials
Date & Origin
Provenance
English
Hallmarks
Unmarked, shank tested to 18ct gold
Surround of cameo tested 15ct gold.
Condition
Very Good
Discovered
2 years ago
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