Early Christian Silver Ring, Eastern Roman - Byzantine, Circa 9th – 12th Century AD
A fine silver ring. This ring’s bezel shows two saints, possibly Peter and Paul, on either side of a long cross. The ring is well constructed with fluted side bands. Original age oxidation provides a pleasing surface effect. Silver rings of this period are much scarcer than those made from bronze.
Romans nailed the worst of criminals to crosses, resulting in the cross being synonymous with shame until Christ’s crucifixion. Since then it has become a symbol of Christian faith. During the Byzantine period it was common to wear plain, decorated or stylized crosses as badges, rings, or around the neck. The crosses were made of bronze, pewter or lead alloy and are some of the earliest forms of Christian symbolism available. Representations of Saints were less common until after the Byzantine Iconoclastic era (8th – early 9th Century AD).
Diameter: 21 mm – 13/16”, Size: 7 ¾ - 8 ¼
