RARE BYZANTINE GOLD DOMED RING WITH FIVE GARNET CABOCHONS

Ca. AD 700. A gold ring with a tapering flat-section hoop bordered by rows of granulation, with a gold sphere applied to each shoulder. The hoop is joined to a large cushion-shaped bezel set with five garnet cabochons in raised collets, one at the centre and four around the perimeter, each enclosed by concentric beaded borders. Further granulated bands divide the bezel into radiating compartments. Size: D:19.35mm / US: 9 1/2 / UK: S 1/2; Weight: 13.1g Provenance: Private London collection of an art professional; acquired on the UK and European art markets between 1980s to early 2000s. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.