A very impressive Ottoman Empire silver-metal ring. It presents a raised bezel with a large black hardstone decorated with an intaglio of a galloping quadruped, probably a horse. The background is enriched with several incised dots. The raised bezel is richly decorated on all sides with faint curvilinear shapes. The shoulders of the ring are decorated with volutes, and the band is enriched with two dotted trails. Good solid condition, wearable. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. Fascination with jewellery grew with the expansion of the Ottoman Empire and the plundering of precious gems from newly conquered land. Jewellery created with precious and semi-precious stones indicated one’s position and power, and was popular with the sultans. Gemstones were valued not just for beauty but for their association with specific powers, particularly healing, and promotion of success. Inside diameter: 1.8 cm Closest UK ring size: M Provenance: Purchased by the current owner in 2021. Prior English collection of Mr. A.H.D.