{"product_id":"antique-early-19th-century-south-indian-gold-nali-ring-with-ruby-pearls","title":"Antique South Indian ‘Nalī’ Ring","description":"\u003cdiv\u003eA remarkable early 19th-century \u003cem\u003enalī\u003c\/em\u003e ring from Tamil Nadu, South India, inspired by traditional \u003cem\u003evanki\u003c\/em\u003e armlets. These distinctive wishbone-shaped rings were crafted for ceremonial purposes and often gifted to South Indian brides, typically by a maternal aunt, as noted by Nanditha Krishna (1991).\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThis example is masterfully crafted from high-karat 22K sheet gold, worked in \u003cem\u003erepoussé\u003c\/em\u003e to create a hollow yet sculptural form. The face features an intricate depiction of a deity, possibly Vishnu or a Hindu protective figure, framed by divine attendants. At the base, a round faceted ruby is bezel-set, with three natural pearls suspended below, freely dangling from gold wire.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eMeasuring 2.5cm north to south, the ring is approximately a UK size J (US 4.5) with an internal diameter of 16mm, and it weighs 5.74g. Despite its age, the ring remains in good overall condition, retaining its fine detailing and rich gold patina.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eSimilar rings are housed in prestigious museum collections, including the Victoria \u0026amp; Albert Museum (Accession No: IS.469-2019) and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA No. AC1994.175.1). An exquisite piece of South Indian heritage, steeped in symbolism and tradition.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48470067118388,"sku":"1017810005","price":3033.0,"currency_code":"CHF","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/0G2A3341_1574535.jpg?v=1739527423","url":"https:\/\/ravensburyantiques.com\/de-ch\/products\/antique-early-19th-century-south-indian-gold-nali-ring-with-ruby-pearls","provider":"Ravensbury Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}