Silver “SNAKE” Bracelet, Ancient Greece - Thrace
c. 3rd – 2nd Century BC
An unusual ancient Thracian silver bracelet crafted from a single strip of hammered silver in the form of a coiled snake with carefully incised details of the head and skin.Though probably produced during the Hellenistic (Greco-Roman) era, the design hearkens back to a more classical style.
In fine wearable condition with a pleasing dark surface patina.
Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans had many representations of snakes in their religious symbology. Rather than being a symbol of evil as in the Judeo-Christian tradition, they were often seen as benign and beneficial. Seen as a symbol of wisdom, healing and eternity, the snake was manifest as a symbol in the wand of both Hermes and Asclepius, and as companions of both Apollo and Athena.
Diameter: 61mm - 2 3/8”
Weight: 79.10gm