This distinctive type of ornament had a long history and is represtented in both Hellenistic and Roman art, but actual examples are extremely rare. The chains passed over the shoulders and under the arms of the wearer, with a decorative focus where they join on the chest and on the back. The two plaques where the chains join comprise a gold coin of Gratian (367-383 CE) in a decorative mount and an oval setting for nine gems. Only the central amethyst and four garnets survive. (P&E P.1994 4-8 1)
aperture=f2.8 focal length: 60.0 mm exposure 1/50 sec ISO: 2000