Byzantine Bronze Ring - With Punched Dots Pattern (No reserve price)
04
days
02
hours
42
minutes
09
seconds
Current bid
€ 15
No reserve price
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
11 other people are watching this object
 Bidder 5668 | €15 | |
|---|---|---|
 Bidder 6567 | €2 |
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 123327 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Ancient Byzantine bronze ring with a flat shield-shaped bezel, 6th–10th Century AD, featuring a punched dots pattern in parallel lines, weighing 4.15 g with an inner diameter of 17 mm, acquired in 2024 from Denmark from an European private collection.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Ancient Byzantine Bronze Ring with Punched Dots Pattern, 6th–10th Century AD
This rare ancient Byzantine bronze ring, features a flat, shield-shaped bezel adorned with a punched dots pattern arranged in parallel lines, creating a striking striped or ladder-like design. The simple band and durable construction reflect the practical yet artistic jewelry of the Eastern Roman Empire, suitable for everyday wear by civilians or clergy.
Symbolism & Historical Significance:
Punched Dots Pattern: In Byzantine culture, dotted motifs often carried apotropaic (protective) connotations, similar to evil eye wards, or served purely decorative purposes, symbolizing order, divinity, or celestial elements. Such patterns were influenced by earlier Roman traditions and could represent woven textiles or abstract symbols of faith and prosperity during a period of religious iconography and imperial artistry.
The repetition of dots might evoke beads or pearls, common in Byzantine aesthetics, emphasizing symmetry and craftsmanship in an era when jewelry blended functionality with spiritual symbolism.
Connection to the Byzantine Empire:
Rings of this type were widespread in the Byzantine world, from Constantinople to the provinces, often excavated from urban sites, churches, or graves. The punched technique allowed for efficient production, making them accessible to various social classes. Similar dotted designs appear in artifacts from the period, highlighting the fusion of Roman heritage with emerging Christian motifs.
Condition:
In great condition with original patina and earthen deposits, preserving the punched details sharply; minor wear adds to its authentic historical charm.
Dimensions:
Inner Diameter: 17 mm
Weight: 4.15 g
Provenance: Ex-European private collection, formed in the 1980s. Provenance document is available in PDF format upon request.
Note: Please examine the provided images for a detailed impression of the ring. The photos are highly magnified to showcase the details the best way possible; otherwise, the piece is even more beautiful and attractive in person.
Seller's Story
As a second-generation history enthusiast and antique art collector, I have a deep passion for historical artifacts—from prehistoric civilizations to the Medieval era. I love connecting with fellow history lovers and sharing unique, carefully selected pieces. My goal is to find new homes for remarkable items while continuing to expand my own collection. Feel free to explore my selection—I hope you find something special!
Ancient Byzantine Bronze Ring with Punched Dots Pattern, 6th–10th Century AD
This rare ancient Byzantine bronze ring, features a flat, shield-shaped bezel adorned with a punched dots pattern arranged in parallel lines, creating a striking striped or ladder-like design. The simple band and durable construction reflect the practical yet artistic jewelry of the Eastern Roman Empire, suitable for everyday wear by civilians or clergy.
Symbolism & Historical Significance:
Punched Dots Pattern: In Byzantine culture, dotted motifs often carried apotropaic (protective) connotations, similar to evil eye wards, or served purely decorative purposes, symbolizing order, divinity, or celestial elements. Such patterns were influenced by earlier Roman traditions and could represent woven textiles or abstract symbols of faith and prosperity during a period of religious iconography and imperial artistry.
The repetition of dots might evoke beads or pearls, common in Byzantine aesthetics, emphasizing symmetry and craftsmanship in an era when jewelry blended functionality with spiritual symbolism.
Connection to the Byzantine Empire:
Rings of this type were widespread in the Byzantine world, from Constantinople to the provinces, often excavated from urban sites, churches, or graves. The punched technique allowed for efficient production, making them accessible to various social classes. Similar dotted designs appear in artifacts from the period, highlighting the fusion of Roman heritage with emerging Christian motifs.
Condition:
In great condition with original patina and earthen deposits, preserving the punched details sharply; minor wear adds to its authentic historical charm.
Dimensions:
Inner Diameter: 17 mm
Weight: 4.15 g
Provenance: Ex-European private collection, formed in the 1980s. Provenance document is available in PDF format upon request.
Note: Please examine the provided images for a detailed impression of the ring. The photos are highly magnified to showcase the details the best way possible; otherwise, the piece is even more beautiful and attractive in person.
Seller's Story
As a second-generation history enthusiast and antique art collector, I have a deep passion for historical artifacts—from prehistoric civilizations to the Medieval era. I love connecting with fellow history lovers and sharing unique, carefully selected pieces. My goal is to find new homes for remarkable items while continuing to expand my own collection. Feel free to explore my selection—I hope you find something special!
Details
Era
Before 1400
Culture
Byzantine
Metal
Bronze
Century/ Timeframe
6th–10th Century AD
Acquired from
Private collection
Total weight
4.15 g
Year acquired
2024
Condition
Excellent condition - barely used with minimal signs of wear
Country acquired from
Denmark
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Title additional information
With Punched Dots Pattern
Previous owner - year acquired
1980
Previous owner - country acquired from
Europe
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
