Egyptian Gold Bracelet in the Shape of a Snake
Abutaam
Roman, 1st century A.D.
Diameter: 8.1 cm
http://www.phoenixancientartsoho.com/egyptiansnakebracelet.html
This superb solid gold bracelet is in perfect condition. The bracelet was
made in the shape of a snake with the body curled around in a single spiral.
It is open and modeled in such a way that one end represents the head with
the mouth open, while the other end depicts the undulating tail of the
reptile.
The best parallels for this piece come from Egypt, where one can find
similar types of bracelets dating from the early Ptolemaic period. In this
region, the snake was associated with the cult of Isis.
While the mythological relationship between Isis and the snake is not
altogether clear, her success throughout the Greco-Roman world was certainly
aided by her association with the coiled serpent, a symbol that was easily
adapted to the making of beautiful jewelry.
Bibliography: For the Egyptian pieces that are the closest in resemblance,
see:
A Passion for Antiquities: Ancient Art from the Collection of B. and L.
Fleischman, 1994, p. 327, #170 (the same example can be found in J.Ogden,
Ancient Jewelry, 1992, p. 8, fig.1). H. Landenius in Medelhavsmuseet
Bulletin 13, 1978, p. 37-40.
By appointment contact Hicham Aboutaam at
47 East 66th Street
New York, NY 10021 USA
Tel: 212-288-7518
http://www.phoenixancientartsoho.com