Ancient Byzantine Silver & Roman Glass Ring
This silver antique ring is designed in the form of a domed Byzantine church with the symbol of a Byzantine cross. The four cardinal points are mirrored in the silver eight-lobed central plaque. Each of the cardinal points is ornamented with three silver granulated orbs. Upon the central plaque is an artifact of antique Roman glass encased by a simple silver bezel. The ring itself is substantial in weight and finely fabricated. The heavy shank is configured in an angled octagonal shape.
Numerical symbolism abounds with eight depicting infinity as well as the visible world, perfection and grace; three represents the Trinity; and four typifies the four directions and the four elements (earth, wind, fire and air) of the material world.
Condition: Very good; surface of glass has wear with some pitting and irregularity yet still retains dome configuration. Silver is fine with light wear and a heavy patina that with wear will shine and brighten.
Measurements: A tad less than 4/5 of an inch (1.8 cm) at the widest; the band is more than ΒΌ of an inch ().8 cm) in width. The ring has a weight of 11.5 grams. It is currently a size US 9-3/4 (British T; Euro 19.50, 61.5 mm). We do not recommend sizing of this antique ring given its age and shaped shank.
Date & Origin: Circa 950 to 1100 CE; Origin is Macedonia, Greece or Turkey of the Eastern Byzantine Empire.
Historical Notes: The Byzantine church is compact and organized usually around a central dome, a plan known as the "cross-in-square." The dome is the highest point; supporting vaults are lower and usually form a cross-shape of vaulted spaces to the north, south, east and west.
