Ca. 400 BC. An onyx scaraboid engraved to the underside with a standing figure holding a palm branch. The gemstone has been set in a gold swivel ring, which features granule decoration at the shoulders. The ring is composed of a thick and plain loop, which has been threaded through the ends of the bezel. This unique design allowed the wearer to swivel the bezel to show off the engraved design as desired. The swivel ring is Phoenician in origin and was extremely popular across the Mediterranean basin in antiquity. Similar items have been found in Cyprus, Greece, Egypt, and Etruria, demonstrating the widespread appeal and influence of Phoenician art and jewelry.Size: D: 18.34mm / US: 8 1/4 / UK: Q; 10.79gProvenance: Private London collection; British art market 1990s.