Western Asiatic Silver-Coloured Metal Rings with Calligraphic Gemstones

With a deep hemispherical bowl and three stub feet, two lateral trapezoidal flanges to the rim, each with an arched handle; similar flange to forward edge with reserved panel of scrolled foliage; to the rear, flange with shallow median socket decorated with scrolled tendrils, two lateral discs each with a star of intersecting triangles; signed by Muhammad Bin Husayn. 5.75 kg, 43.5 cm



with Christie's, South Kensington, Art & Textiles of The Islamic & Indian Worlds, 8 April 2011, no.150. Private collection, UK.

Oval in plan with a tapering drilled central socket. 360 grams, 81 mm



Ex private collection, Contessa L.G., since the 1980s. Private collection, acquired in 1999.

The mace was a close-combat weapon consisting of a short handle and a massive striking element—the head, a striking weapon capable of inflicting severe contusions and internal fractures. Although a very archaic and rather primitive weapon, the mace was nevertheless widely used in the ancient East. Its sacred and representative role was particularly significant. Due to its shape, it symbolised the owner's masculinity and was therefore one of the primary insignia of power, symbolising the inseparability of its civil, military, and sacred-magical essences—ensuring the functioning and reproduction of the collective and the conditions for its existence. This is why we so often encounter ‘ceremonial’ maces, especially those made of stone—in this case, undoubtedly a ritual material. However, it must be said that stone, as a material for a mace head, was in no way inferior to metal in terms of combat qualities, while being much more labour-intensive to manufacture, which was precisely what appealed to the ritual, symbolic role of this weapon.

Including thistle-head finial, openwork cross finial and other types. 64.5 grams total, 9.4-16.4 cm



From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent.