SASANIAN BRONZE RING WITH PROWLING LION

Ca. 224–651 AD
A bronze ring with a circular band and a tulip-shaped oval bezel on a broad base set with a red gemstone depicting a left-facing lion with an upturned tail. The lion is rendered in a naturalistic manner with detailing of the ribcage. The Sasanian Empire was the last Persian imperial dynasty before the Muslim conquest in the mid-seventh century AD. It lasted for over four centuries, from 224 to 651 AD, making it the longest-lived Persian dynasty. The Sasanian Empire succeeded the Parthian Empire, and re-established the Iranians as a superpower in late antiquity, alongside its neighbouring arch-rival, the Roman-Byzantine Empire. The period of Sasanian rule is considered a high point in Iranian history, and in many ways was the peak of ancient Iranian culture before the Muslim conquest. Good condition, fully wearable.
Size: D: 17.1mm / US: 6 3/4 / UK: N 1/2; 6.6g
Provenance: Private London Collection.
Estimate: GBP 75 - 150