Printed from Woolley & Wallis

Description

A Roman sardonyx intaglio depicting Salus, c1st century BC - 1st century AD, the bust depicted in profile with a snake below, in a later gold ring mount, with maker's mark SP, intaglio 1.3cm high, ring size R 1/2

Salus was the ancient Roman goddess of health and prosperity (Greek equivalent: Hygieia). She is often pictured holding a snake that is shedding its skin, which is representative of re-birth or eternal youth and thus a freedom from illness.