Finger Ring with a Cross- Frankish Artifact

 Finger Ring with a Cross

Throughout the Middle Ages, finger rings were common among those who were of higher rank. Some rings of the ages had monograms and names crafted into the metalwork were used to seal important documents. However, most rings were used and seen as accessories to add to already opulent apparel. Like most jewelry of the time, rings were made from gold, as well as sometimes silver. They were crafted with different precious stones such as amber and emeralds. Many different metalworking techniques were used for jewelry during the time as well.

This ring specifically is Frankish, originating from France between 450- 525 C.E. The ring most likely belonged to a Frank that was of a high ranking and was worn as decoration as well as to represent the wearer's Christian faith. The fine craftsmanship of the ring helps to demonstrate the sophistication of the Franks when it came to metalwork. The intricate spirals of metal and the use of the garnet and mother-of-pearl add a layer of beauty to the piece as well as to indicate the amount of work the Frankish put into their metalworking for not only rings, but other jewelry and crafts as well. 

Sources: 

Art. “Finger Ring with a Cross | Work of Art | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History | The Metropolitan Museum of Art.” The Met’s Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History, 2019, www.metmuseum.org/toah/works-of-art/17.192.229/. Accessed 9 Sept. 2019.

‌“Finger Ring with a Cross | Frankish | The Met.” The Metropolitan Museum of Art, i.e. The Met Museum, 2019, www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/465296. Accessed 9 Sept. 2019.

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“Golden Age Beads.” Golden Age Beads, 14 Sept. 2017, www.goldenagebeads.com/blog/jewelry-through-the-ages-part-2-medieval-jewelry.html. Accessed 9 Sept. 2019.