SCYTHIAN GOLD FINGER RING DEPICTING A LION

Ca. 600 - 400 BC.
A Scythian gold finger ring depicting probably a lion, shown with open mouth and claws. The band is composed of a round, flat-section loop. In Scythian culture, the lion held symbolic importance as a powerful and revered animal. Depicted in their art and mythology, the lion represented strength, courage, and kingship. As nomadic warriors, the Scythians likely encountered lions while travelling across the Eurasian steppe, further enhancing the creature's significance in their culture. Lion motifs adorned their artifacts, such as jewellery and weaponry, serving as talismans for protection and valor. The presence of the lion in Scythian culture reflects the influence of nature and the hunt on their worldview. For similar see: British Museum, Museum number: 124012.
Size: D:18.34mm / US: 8 1/4 / UK: Q; Weight: 2.8g
Provenance: Property of a London art gallery; formerly in a private collection of a Kensington gentleman since the 1990s. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.