Byzantine ring, 4th century. Gold, nicolo (onyx), niello; 3.18 x 4.45 cm. Acquired by Henry Walters, 57.542 © The Walters Art Museum

The blue nicolo inltaglio has a delicate figure of Nike (Victory) standing on an orb and holding a wreath in her outstretched hand. The circular bezel is almost completely separated from the hoop and is held up by a pair of leopards. Other rings of this type contain coins of emperors of the 3rd and 4th centuries. This ring was most likely a reward given by an emperor to a successful military leader.