Ring
Excavated at Nishapur, this ring is one of very few silver objects to survive from the medieval period, as silver was often melted down to create currency. Turquoise deposits near Nishapur were exploited to create beautiful jewels, such as this one. According to eleventh-century polymath and natural philosopher Al-Biruni, turquoise was believed to dispel the harmful effects of the evil eye. This ring therefore would have served both as a talisman, as well as an ornament meant to adorn the wearer.
Artwork Details
- Title: Ring
- Date: 9th–11th century
- Geography: Found Iran, Nishapur
- Medium: Silver, turquoise
- Dimensions: H. 1 in. (2.5 cm)
W. 1 in. (2.6 cm) - Classification: Jewelry
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1940
- Object Number: 40.170.202
- Curatorial Department: Islamic Art
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9th–12th century
9th–11th century
9th–11th century
9th–11th century
ca. 1180–1210
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