Seljuk Dynasty Lapis Lazuli Ring

This unusual and rare Islamic high stirrup ring dates to the 13th century Seljuk dynasty, (probably Iran). The carved lapis lazuli intaglio is set within a solid truncated and chamfered bezel, typical of the Seljuk period. The stone is held in position by two wedge-shaped silver prongs setting soldered horizontally to the outside of the octagonal bezel which is decorated with engraved patterns. Unlike most existing examples which are cast in gold, this is a very scarce surviving example in silver. The carving appears to depict a bird, possibly a pheasant or bird of paradise, surrounded by Kufic script. 

For similar referenced examples see items 46 in ‘Islamic Rings and Gems: the Benjamin Zucker Collection’ (1987) as well as lot 361 in Christie’s October 2012 Jewellery sale.

The Seljuks, a Turkish dynasty of Central Asian nomadic origins, became the new rulers of eastern Islamic lands following the defeat of the powerful Ghaznavids at the Battle of Dandanakan (1040). Under the Seljuk sultanate, the region enjoyed a period of material and cultural prosperity.

UK size M 1/2, US size 6.5

The ring weighs 8.05g. The ring is unmarked; the protruding head tests as silver, whilst the band might be crafted from a silver alloy based on the discolouration. 

The ring protrudes 2.5cm from the finger, the lapis lazuli measures 12mm x 9mm. 

在整个伊斯兰世界，从波斯、中亚到安纳托利亚与黎凡特，戒指都是一个人最私密的随身之物之一。它们既是签署文件的印章，也是祈求庇护的护身符与信仰的标志；镶嵌其上的硬石常刻有主人的姓名、虔诚的箴言或《古兰经》经文。

伊斯兰戒指横跨众多王朝，包括塞尔柱、帖木儿与萨法维王朝。11 至 13 世纪的塞尔柱金匠尤为技艺精湛，以乌银（一种黑色嵌料）与精细的金珠粒工艺加工金银。红玉髓、玛瑙、石榴石和青金石是最受青睐的宝石，常刻有优雅的库法体或纳斯赫体铭文。每一件都是可佩戴的小小历史。

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