Intaglio Ring depicting the Three Graces

MU4760 is a silver intaglio (engraved gemstone) ring depicting the Three Graces. The ring has been horizontally set with an oval green gemstone intaglio that is finely engraved with three female standing figures which represent the Three Graces; Thalia, Euphrosyne and Aglaia. The gemstone is set within a closed back silver ring, the surface of which is slightly abraded and marked. Rings were commonly worn by both Roman men and women and fine examples such as MU4760 would have functioned as an obvious sign of wealth, social status and merit. Gemstone engraving was a popular artform in Roman society and MU4760 is an excellent example of the exceptional work done by highly skilled specialist craftsmen. Due to the hardness of the gemstone the manufacturing process for rings such MU4760 would have been a difficult and lengthy process. Designs were carved into the gemstone using fine metal tools and an abrasive powder made from a material harder than the stone itself.