Early Byzantine Gold Ring with Pearls and Later Cloisonne Enamelled Figure

With rounded underside and flange rim; tondo with incised symmetrical vinescroll with bunches of grapes enclosing central disc with niello-filled Chi Rho flanked by alpha and omega; legend to the rim in capitals: '+++ ΥΠΕΡ ΑΝΑΠΑΥϹΕΩϹ ΕΥΧΗϹ ΟΝ ΟΙΔΕΝ ΟΘϹ ΤΑ ΟΝΟΜΑΤΑ' (For the eternal rest of him who had knowledge in the name of the Lord). 395 grams, 23.5 cm wide



From a European family collection formed in the 1990s; thence by descent to a UK gentleman. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. Accompanied by professional drawings of the object. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11963-210867.

The decorative apparatus of this plate could be associated with Eastern Roman art of the 11-12th century A.D., although we cannot exclude an earlier dating.

Flat hoop with beaded wire borders and braided filigree ornament; discoid box bezel with seed pearls on a wire to the outer edge; upper face a (modern) cloisonné enamel panel depicting Mary in orans posture. 6.37 grams, 23.84 mm overall, 18.95 mm internal diameter (approximate size British R, USA 8 1/2, Europe 18 3/4, Japan 18)



From a collection formed in Antwerp, Belgium. Acquired in France in the early 2000s. Accompanied by a copy of a previous illustrated catalogue information page.

Formed as an equal-armed cross with pellet terminals within a circlet, two small loops below and a large suspension loop above. 1.00 grams, 17 mm



Ex property of a late Japanese collector, 1970-2000s.