Ancient Javanese Wirework Ring
This piece has found a new home
We source pieces like this from auctions and private collections across Europe. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know when something similar arrives.
Ask about a similar piece
From the Journal
Gold of the Gods: Ancient Javanese and Balinese Rings
税込。
送料はご購入手続き時に計算されます。
Drop A Hint
Visit Our London Showroom
Our London showroom is open by appointment only.
Email
info@ravensburyantiques.com
to arrange a visit.
-
An exceptional ancient Javanese wirework ring dating to circa the 8th–10th century AD, from a period when Java was a major cultural and political centre of Southeast Asia.Crafted in high karat gold (approximately 23K), the ring features a distinctive twisted gold wire motif wrapped across the bezel and extending down the shoulders. The bold, rhythmic coils are entirely characteristic of early Javanese goldwork and demonstrate the refined metalworking traditions of the region.Gold rings in ancient Java were not merely decorative ornaments. They functioned as symbols of rank and authority, were used as ritual currency, and were often worn as protective emblems. The Old Javanese word for ‘ring’ is derived from a term meaning ‘guardian against enemies’, underscoring the amuletic significance these jewels once carried.Closely related examples can be found in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, as well as in the superb reference work Java: The Wealth of Rings, one of the most comprehensive studies of Javanese gold jewellery.The ring is slightly misshapen, as visible in the images, consistent with its great age; however, when worn this is not noticeable.Weight 7.37 gramsUK size I, US size 4.25A powerful and highly wearable survival from early medieval Java; over a thousand years old and still wonderfully striking today.
An exceptional ancient Javanese wirework ring dating to circa the 8th–10th century AD, from a period when Java was a major cultural and political centre of Southeast Asia.
Crafted in high karat gold (approximately 23K), the ring features a distinctive twisted gold wire motif wrapped across the bezel and extending down the shoulders. The bold, rhythmic coils are entirely characteristic of early Javanese goldwork and demonstrate the refined metalworking traditions of the region.
Gold rings in ancient Java were not merely decorative ornaments. They functioned as symbols of rank and authority, were used as ritual currency, and were often worn as protective emblems. The Old Javanese word for ‘ring’ is derived from a term meaning ‘guardian against enemies’, underscoring the amuletic significance these jewels once carried.
Closely related examples can be found in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, as well as in the superb reference work Java: The Wealth of Rings, one of the most comprehensive studies of Javanese gold jewellery.
The ring is slightly misshapen, as visible in the images, consistent with its great age; however, when worn this is not noticeable.
Weight 7.37 grams
UK size I, US size 4.25
A powerful and highly wearable survival from early medieval Java; over a thousand years old and still wonderfully striking today.
私たちのお約束
販売するすべての品の真正性を必ず保証いたします
すべてのご注文で、理由を問わない30日間の返品を承ります
すべての商品を箱に収めギフトラッピングを施し、保険付き・世界送料無料でお届けします
すべてのジュエリーを細心の注意を払って検品・解説・撮影しています
