{"product_id":"ancient-javanese-labyrinth-ring","title":"Ancient Javanese Labyrinth Ring","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThis scarce ancient Javanese ring, crafted from high-karat gold (approx. 22K) during Indonesia's Early Classical period, dates from the 8th-10th century. Its small yet solid construction reflects the skilled artisanship of ancient Java, with a weight of 7.06 grams. Measuring 14mm wide by 10mm high (US size 1.5-2, UK size C-D), the ring is wearable and can be resized if desired.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe circular bezel, 8mm in diameter, is adorned with a labyrinth motif, a rare design symbolising fertility and often associated with the female reproductive system (Pernicka and Lockhoff, 2018). Bosch (1960 : 117–8, pl. 35) and Lunsingh Scheurleer (2012 : 69) believe that the swirling concentric structure is an extreme variant of the ‘Sri’ motif, representing the Javanese goddess Dewi Sri. Rings with this motif were believed to bring good fortune to the wearer in the Central Javanese Period. The ring’s shoulders, designed in a distinctive stirrup shape, echo the form of water buffalo horns—a traditional element in Javanese jewellery design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eJava, one of the most prominent islands in the Indonesian archipelago, has long been a centre of art and civilisation. Gold jewellery, particularly rings, held great significance in ancient Java, serving not only as a symbol of wealth and power but also as a form of currency and payment for goods, services, and ceremonial events. Rings were believed to carry magical properties, offering protection and fortune to the wearer. The term ‘ring’ in Old Javanese translates to ‘guardian against enemy,’ highlighting its cultural importance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThis ring is in good, wearable condition, an impressive survivor of its age and heritage. A similar example can be seen in \u003ci\u003eJava Gold: The Wealth of Rings\u003c\/i\u003e by Pernicka and Lockhoff (2018), p.176 inventory number: 04034.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48341225472308,"sku":"","price":2322.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/0G2A1657.jpg?v=1730913068","url":"https:\/\/ravensburyantiques.com\/fr-be\/products\/ancient-javanese-labyrinth-ring","provider":"Ravensbury Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}