Roman Bracelet in the Getty Villa, June 2016

Title: Bracelet

Artist/Maker: Unknown

Culture: Roman

Place: Roman Empire (Place created)

Date: about A.D. 379–395

Medium: Gold, emeralds, sapphires, and glass

Object Number: 83.AM.227.2

Dimensions: 2.8 × 5.8 cm (1 1/8 × 2 1/4 in.)

Alternate Titles: Bracelet with Openwork (Display Title)

Object Type: Bracelet


An openwork band framed by turned-in, solid borders, this bracelet bedecked with colored stones and glass suited the Late Roman taste for heavy gold bracelets. The bracelet was made in two pieces, which were then hinged and secured with a screw pin. The openwork on this bracelet is particularly fine and delicate. Large emeralds, blue glass, and now-missing pearls contrast with the gold background of the bracelet, foreshadowing the Early Byzantine interest in polychromy. The gems are held by settings more elaborate than often seen in this period, including some raised settings that allow the light to show through the stone.

Text from: www.getty.edu/art/collection/objects/16310/unknown-maker-bracelet-roman-about-ad-379-395