A very impressive Islamic Ottoman/Bedouin Style silver-metal ring. It presents a raised bezel with an oval red hardstone intaglio showing a scorpion. The raised bezel is richly decorated on all sides with a twisted, scrolling pattern. The shoulders rise up to two pointed protrusions, decorated with a scrolling pattern. The rest of the band is plain. Wearable condition. Some minor signs of wear such as tarnishing and earthy encrustations, as consistent with age. The intaglio decoration served as a stamp or a seal, illustrating a protective symbol or the heraldry of the owner. Jewellery, especially rings, were used as a way to demonstrate the wealth and social status of the wearer. Rings could have been modelled in gold, silver or bronze, and enriched by precious and semi-precious stones, or even glass. Measurements: (circa) H 2.5cm x W 2.3cm Inside diameter: (circa) 1.9cm Closest UK ring size: Q Provenance: Purchased by the current owner in 2021. Prior English collection of Mr. A.H.D., acquired 1990s.