Antique Religious Alpine Ring
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A rare early 19th century devotional gold ring, likely originating from the Alpine regions of Austria, South Tyrol, or Southern Germany, dating to the first half of the 19th century. The octagonal bezel is centred with the Christogram “IHS” in gold against a black enamel ground, surmounted by a cross and flanked by stylised motifs terminating in three arrow-like forms arranged in an anchor pattern.The initials IHS derive from the Greek spelling of Jesus’ name and became one of the most recognisable Christian devotional symbols throughout Catholic Europe. Such rings were worn as personal expressions of faith and protection, particularly in strongly Catholic Alpine regions of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.The shoulders are unusually detailed, featuring chased foliate engraving and repoussé cherub heads to either side of the bezel; a motif frequently associated with Baroque and late Biedermeier religious ornament. The ring retains a strong sculptural quality, with deeply engraved detailing throughout and rich contrast between the warm gold and black enamel face.Tests as approximately 14K gold. Ring size P 1/2 (US size 8). Weight: 5.46 grams.Condition is good overall for age, with wear and minor losses to the black enamel consistent with nearly two centuries of use. A highly unusual antique religious ring with strong regional character and striking iconography.
A rare early 19th century devotional gold ring, likely originating from the Alpine regions of Austria, South Tyrol, or Southern Germany, dating to the first half of the 19th century. The octagonal bezel is centred with the Christogram “IHS” in gold against a black enamel ground, surmounted by a cross and flanked by stylised motifs terminating in three arrow-like forms arranged in an anchor pattern.
The initials IHS derive from the Greek spelling of Jesus’ name and became one of the most recognisable Christian devotional symbols throughout Catholic Europe. Such rings were worn as personal expressions of faith and protection, particularly in strongly Catholic Alpine regions of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
The shoulders are unusually detailed, featuring chased foliate engraving and repoussé cherub heads to either side of the bezel; a motif frequently associated with Baroque and late Biedermeier religious ornament. The ring retains a strong sculptural quality, with deeply engraved detailing throughout and rich contrast between the warm gold and black enamel face.
Tests as approximately 14K gold. Ring size P 1/2 (US size 8). Weight: 5.46 grams.
Condition is good overall for age, with wear and minor losses to the black enamel consistent with nearly two centuries of use. A highly unusual antique religious ring with strong regional character and striking iconography.
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