Art Deco 'Mars' Signet Ring
Mars: god of war and guardian of the crops. Virility, as a vis (life force) or virtus (virtue) was an essential characteristic of Mars, tying in with his roles as both Agricultural Guardian, and Ultimate Warrior. He was seen to ward off the hostile forces of nature to create the favourable conditions required for crops to grow. He was called on to ward off "rust" referring to both the red fungus that could ruin a wheat crop, and the iron oxide affecting metal weapons. The wild animals most sacred to Mars were the woodpecker, the wolf, and the bear.
An antique intaglio ring depicting Mars. Unlike his Greek counterpart Ares, Mars, the son of Jupiter and Juno, held a dignified, indeed critical, position within the Roman pantheon. Whereas the Greeks saw Ares to be primarily a destructive and destabilising force to the extent that he was often treated with revulsion and contempt, Mars was accepted by the Romans as Pater (the Father) of their People, representing military power as a means to secure peace and, ultimately, prosperity.
Most of his festivities were held in March and October. March was first month in the Roman year, meaning that he was born with the new year, and the month that most military campaigning began (of course, it remains named after him to this day). October saw the crops brought in and the end of the farming season.
The ring, crafted in solid yellow gold, is home to an onyx cameo, hand-carved to depict the Mars with helmet and full beard.
Era: Art Deco, 1924
Ring size: P or 7.5 US. Resizeable for £55
Head: 11.0mm by 9.3mm
Stone: Onyx
Hallmarks: English, Birmingham, 9ct Gold, 1924, CYBS Maker's Mark
Condition: Great antique condition
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Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
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Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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Resizing
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£55 flat fee
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Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
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Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved and often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 2-3 weeks to shipping times
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