Europa & the Bull Ring

Mythological scene of Phoenician princess Europa riding the bull, an embodiment of Zeus in disguise. This masterfully detailed depiction of the bull in motion and Europa’s billowing veil exquisitely captures the drama and beauty of this legendary tale.

The tale of Europa and Cadmus, rooted in Greek mythology, tells of the siblings born to the king of Phoenicia, now modern-day Lebanon. Europa was celebrated as the epitome of feminine beauty, so much so that she became the personification of an entire continent. Captivated by her charm, Zeus, the ruler of the Olympian gods, transformed himself into a majestic white bull to lure her. Unaware of the bull's true identity, Europa climbed onto its back, and Zeus swiftly carried her across the sea, away from her homeland. Heartbroken, her father sent her brother Cadmus to find her. His journey took him to Greece, where, though he never found his sister, it is said he introduced the alphabet to the Greeks, leaving an enduring legacy.

Flipping the coin reveals the head of Apollo Soranus, with his hair in parallel corkscrew curls held in a taenia. Behind his head rests a dolabra, a pickaxe symbolising the carving of rock for tombs and catacomb chambers, a reference to Soranus, the god of the underworld. Before the rise of the Romans, Soranus was venerated in Italy by the Etruscans, Sabines, and Falisci. Following Rome's conquest of the tribes, Soranus became associated with Apollo, who assumed his shrine at Mount Soracte under the title of Apollo Soranus. This deity was known for anointing and laying bodies to rest, facilitating the soul's release from the flesh. The star detailed above his forehead further signifies his role as the patron of light and the sun.

• Coin Ø 18mm

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Each ancient coin and artefact used in our jewellery has been restored and professionally stabilised to ensure it can be enjoyed for lifetimes. Patina, the natural toning and oxidation on silver, bronze, and copper coins, is not dirt; it is a protective layer formed over hundreds of years, adding to the coin’s unique history. Conservation efforts aim to stabilise and preserve these valuable patinas whenever possible. Silver naturally tones over time, developing a soft to deep grey with brighter highlights on raised surfaces. This toning is highly coveted, adding a touch of age and beauty to the coin’s details that only time can provide.

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