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Ring

10th–11th century
On view at The Met Cloisters in Gallery 14
This ring consists of multiple elements soldered together to create a rich, micro-architectural form, a feature typical of Ottonian goldsmithing. The varied techniques used in its fabrication resulted in areas of granulation, swabbed and twisted wires, and ribbons of bent wire, as well as cast, punched, and chased elements. At the center is a flowerlike ornament in cloisonné enamel. The ring bears witness to the high degree of sophistication at the court of the Ottonian emperors, who ruled central Europe from 936 until 1024.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Ring
  • Date: 10th–11th century
  • Geography: Made in Germany
  • Culture: German
  • Medium: Gold with cloisonné enamel
  • Dimensions: Overall: 1 x 7/8 x 11/16 in. (2.5 x 2.3 x 1.8 cm)
    Bezel: 3/8 x 7/8 x 11/16 in. (0.9 x 2.3 x 1.8 cm)
    Band width & thickness at thinnest: 1/16 x 1/16 in. (0.2 x 0.2 cm)
  • Classification: Metalwork-Gold
  • Credit Line: The Cloisters Collection, 2004
  • Object Number: 2004.274
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

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