Lot 224 A MAGNIFICENT EARLY ISLAMIC GOLD RING, NEAR EAST 10TH-11TH CENTURY
A large and elaborate gold ring from the 10/11th.c.AD. This exceptional ring shows off the extraordinary skill and virtuosity of the jewelers of the early islamic period. The ring is built up of '8' shaped elements made of flattened wire which are then filigreed to each other to form a sheet which is then fashioned into the required shape. The shank is lined from the inside by a plain gold sheet while all the other edges are formed by a beaded wire running along the joins.The bezel is in the form of a lozenge, and a cabochon garnet is set into the centre, held on a mount surrounded by a plain wire. The technique produced what in effect is a 'cage' of strength yet great lightness, a truly remarkable achievement. It is for this factor that the technique was never used again in later times.
This ring stands as a testament to the opulence and level of craftsmanship reached during the 12th century/ early islamic period in the urban centers of the manufacture of such items.
Length: 3.8 cm.
EU size: 12
Weight: 10.4 gr.