Byzantine Bronze Byzantine–Medieval Bronze Ring with Large Disc Bezel and Ring-and-Dot Decoration – ca. 8th–12th - 21 mm (No reserve price)

A finger ring from the Byzantine to medieval period, made of a copper alloy, probably bronze, featuring a noticeably large, almost circular disc plate. Characteristic is the reduced geometric decoration consisting of four evenly arranged ring punctures.

The plate, about 16 × 16 mm in size, displays four so-called ring-and-dot motifs. Each ornament consists of a circular depression with a central punch mark. The four elements are arranged in an almost cross-shaped pattern on the otherwise largely unadorned surface. Ring-and-dot ornaments have a long tradition and are known from various late antique, Byzantine, and medieval contexts. A specific symbolic or religious meaning of the four punctures cannot be determined without a secure find context.

What is notable is the construction of the ring. The large and comparatively thin disc plate transitions on the underside over distinctly extended shoulders into a slender ring shank. The underside shows no corresponding openings or visible rivet ends, so the four depressions should be regarded as decorative punch marks and not as fastening elements.

The dark surface shows age-related wear, numerous fine scratches, smaller depressions, and irregular deposits. The four ring punctures are nevertheless complete and clearly recognizable. Based on the typological features, the piece is cautiously placed in the Byzantine to medieval period, roughly the 8th–12th century CE.

Details:
Object: ring with disc plate
Period: Byzantine – medieval
Dating: approx. 8th–12th century CE
Material: copper alloy, probably bronze
Decoration: four ring-and-dot punches
Weight: 3.48 g
Total height: approx. 21 mm
Inner diameter: approx. 18 mm
Plate: approx. 16 × 16 mm
Magnetic test: non-magnetic
Condition: age-appropriate archaeological state with dark patina, surface wear, scratches, minor depressions and deposits; all four punch marks clearly preserved.

You receive exactly the ring shown in the pictures.