Early Medieval Frankish Gold Architectural Ring, Arcaded Bezel

Western Europe, Frankish Kingdoms, Merovingian period. A small finger ring of high-carat gold, about 19.5 karats (81.3 percent gold), in the "architectural" type. The band is plain and smoothly hammered, broadening slightly at the shoulders. It rises into a tall bezel built like a tiny tower. At its base is an openwork collar of arches, with clusters of fine granules at each joint, like the capitals and finials of a colonnade. Above this sits a cylindrical stem that flares into a shallow, cup-like setting. The goldsmith's skill shows in the granulation and in the airy open frame, which are typical of elite Frankish jewelry. Rings like this marked rank and wealth. Its small size suggests it may have been worn by a woman or child, or above the knuckle. Scholars use the name "architectural ring" for a group of early medieval rings whose bezels rise above the hoop on raised, arcaded supports, so the setting looks like a small building or reliquary tower. The form grew out of Late Roman and Byzantine jewelry. In the Frankish kingdoms of the 6th and 7th centuries, Merovingian goldsmiths reworked it with their own fondness for granulation and filigree. Gold rings of this quality were costly. They usually turn up in richly furnished burials alongside brooches, belt fittings, and imported goods. They are generally read as badges of high social standing and not as everyday ornaments. Item # 205479

Estimate:$1,200

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