Technical Observations: These two almost perfectly round rings (2012.1.77 and 2012.1.78) are solid and have symmetrically spaced torus-shaped protrusions around their circumferences. These rings are not an identical and were probably not an original pair. The segment lengths between the six protrusions on 2012.1.77 are 6.9, 6.6, 4.5, 4.3, 4.2, and 4.75 cm; and the lengths between the four protrusions on 2012.1.78 are 7.9, 6.9, 7.13, and 6.4 cm. Each of these protrusions has a slight step at each end. Whether these were merely decorative, served a function, or reflect part of the fabrication process is not clear.
2012.1.77 has a grayish-brown matte appearance interspersed with greenish-black areas and the remains of light pinkish-tan burial accretions. Closer examination reveals areas where the surface has chipped off exposing a cupritic reddish surface, which is evidence of a naturally aged bronze. Some of the black accretions are copper sulfide resulting from post-excavation storage conditions. 2012.1.78 has a slightly different patina, with grayish-white accretions overall and a bumpy green corroded surface below, which has also chipped off in some areas to reveal cuprite.
The diameter of the solid metal loop that forms the ring is c. 1.0 cm on 2012.1.77, and 0.89 to 0.98 cm on 2012.1.78; the torus-shaped protrusions are slightly oval and between 1.95 to 2.45 cm on 2012.1.77 and c. 1.8 to 2.1 cm on 2012.1.78.
There is no conclusive evidence of how the wax models were assembled. It is not clear whether the protrusions were formed over the previously shaped ring or if segments of the ring were joined in alternation with the protruding elements, but each object was clearly cast in one piece. The ring segments are slightly thicker as they approach to the protruding elements.
Francesca G. Bewer (submitted 2011)
