Byzantine Mary & Jesus Ring
A simple silver ring depicting the Madonna and Child, highly stylised, in cameo relief on the round head. It dates from the early Medieval Period (8th to 10th century AD), likely Byzantine or Thracian, and the two figures are depicted with halos and prominent eyes, Jesus held in his mother's arms. Its construction suggests that it may have been made as a votive offering rather than a piece for personal wear.
Early Byzantine rings of the Eastern Empire were initially continuations of late classical motifs popular in Rome. By the time this ring was made, however, trends had shifted to iconography of the Christian faith, and designs now incorporated elements from the Slavic, Persian, Eurasian, Frankish and Turkish cultures that had been assimilated into the empire. From T. N. Pollio's excellent book, Ancient Rings, An Illustrated Collector's Guide (2018):
"The workshops in Constantinople and adjacent areas gradually developed a unique style of jewelry, art and architecture which remained popular throughout the Medieval Period. Byzantine artisans and craftsmen were much in demand in Europe and elsewhere. Their distinctive relifious iconography was studied and copied in places as distant as Italy, Eastern Europe and Russia."
Era: Byzantine, circa 10th century AD
Ring size: Q or 8 US
Head size: 13.8mm by 13.5mm
Marks: None, tested as silver
Condition: Good, signs of wear consistent with age including some tarnish to the silver. The head and band are probably a later marriage.
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This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable)
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
Shipping
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Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£55 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
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Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
A 25% deposit will be taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved, often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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alex@lostowl.jewelry
An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 2-3 weeks to shipping times
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