Carnelian oval set in a 17th–18th century gold ring -27-14

This ring features a carnelian oval carved by Gnaios, set in a gold ring from the 17th or 18th century. The stone portrays a female figure in profile, her features rendered with a classical grace reminiscent of ancient Roman portraiture. The choice of carnelian, with its warm, vibrant color, is striking against the gold setting. While Gnaios’s identity remains somewhat mysterious, the ring is evidence of the enduring fascination with classical forms during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The revival of classical aesthetics wasn't just about replicating forms, but also about reimagining ideals of beauty, power, and identity in a rapidly changing world. Consider how the ring’s intimate scale invites personal reflection. The ring becomes a symbolic link to the past, offering a tangible connection to the values and aspirations of bygone eras.