Byzantine Bronze Ring - With Monogram (No reserve price)
06
days
02
hours
45
minutes
18
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
No reserve price
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Byzantine bronze signet ring with an elliptical bezel bearing a central monogram, dating to circa 10th–13th century AD, weighing 5.24 g with an inner diameter of 17.1 mm (EU 54, US 7), in excellent condition and wearable, formerly part of a private European collection and acquired in 2024 from Denmark.
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Description from the seller
BYZANTINE BRONZE SIGNET RING WITH MONOGRAM
Eastern Mediterranean, circa 10th–13th century AD
A finely cast bronze signet ring featuring an elliptical bezel engraved with a stylized central monogram, likely representing the personal name or identity of its original owner. The engraved field is enclosed within an interlaced or vegetal border, characteristic of Byzantine decorative traditions.
The shoulders are elegantly broadened and adorned with incised linear motifs, tapering into a rounded hoop. The ring exhibits a rich dark patina with areas of warm reddish-brown surface exposure, consistent with age and burial.
Signet rings of this type were used both as personal identifiers and administrative tools, impressed into wax or clay to seal documents. The abstract, linear engraving suggests a Greek monogram tradition rather than figural or heraldic imagery, aligning with Byzantine cultural and artistic practices.
Condition:
Intact and wearable. Surface wear and minor abrasions consistent with age. Engraving remains visible though softened. No structural damage.
Dimensions
Inner diameter: 17.1 mm
Weight: 5.24 g
Ring Size (approx.):
EU: 54
US: 7
Material:
Bronze (copper alloy)
Provenance
Formerly part of a private European collection, established in the 1980s.
A provenance document from the previous owner can be provided in PDF format upon request.
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!
BYZANTINE BRONZE SIGNET RING WITH MONOGRAM
Eastern Mediterranean, circa 10th–13th century AD
A finely cast bronze signet ring featuring an elliptical bezel engraved with a stylized central monogram, likely representing the personal name or identity of its original owner. The engraved field is enclosed within an interlaced or vegetal border, characteristic of Byzantine decorative traditions.
The shoulders are elegantly broadened and adorned with incised linear motifs, tapering into a rounded hoop. The ring exhibits a rich dark patina with areas of warm reddish-brown surface exposure, consistent with age and burial.
Signet rings of this type were used both as personal identifiers and administrative tools, impressed into wax or clay to seal documents. The abstract, linear engraving suggests a Greek monogram tradition rather than figural or heraldic imagery, aligning with Byzantine cultural and artistic practices.
Condition:
Intact and wearable. Surface wear and minor abrasions consistent with age. Engraving remains visible though softened. No structural damage.
Dimensions
Inner diameter: 17.1 mm
Weight: 5.24 g
Ring Size (approx.):
EU: 54
US: 7
Material:
Bronze (copper alloy)
Provenance
Formerly part of a private European collection, established in the 1980s.
A provenance document from the previous owner can be provided in PDF format upon request.
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
10th–13th century AD
Acquired from
Private collection
Total weight
5.24 g
Year acquired
2024
Condition
Excellent condition - barely used with minimal signs of wear
Country acquired from
Denmark
Previous owner acquired from
Inherited
Title additional information
With Monogram
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.
