Mesopotamian Bronze Funerary Finger Ring - 1st Millennium BCE | Museum Professor Judging

Embark on a journey to the ancient lands of Mesopotamia with this exclusive Bronze Funerary Finger Ring, a testament to the mysterious cultures of Iran or West Central Asia. This unique piece, dating back to the 1st millennium BCE, features a distinctive decorated bezel and carries the weight of history with a size of 54mm in diameter and 27mm in height. With a certificate of authenticity and judgment report from W.G. Lambert of the British Museum, this artifact holds unparalleled value for serious collectors and enthusiasts of ancient civilization.

This remarkable Bronze Funerary Finger Ring is a captivating relic from an era shrouded in mystery. The elaborate bezel, adorned with a zig-zag edge and a symmetrical pattern forming rough heart shapes, signifies the artistic prowess and aesthetic sensibilities of a culture yet to be fully understood. The ring's construction from strands of bronze and the presence of heavy incrustation suggest it was not intended for everyday wear but rather served as a ceremonial or funerary object, possibly accompanying its owner into the afterlife as part of grave goods.

The intricate design, although worn by the passage of time, still showcases the skillful manipulation of metal by the artisan. The choice of bronze, valued for its durability and sheen, implies a special significance in its funerary context, perhaps indicating status or serving as a protective amulet. The ring’s presence in the private collection of S. from London and its subsequent holding at the A&O Gallery in the UK further attest to its authenticity and rarity.

As a collector's item, this ring is positioned in a high-value category, considering its significant attributes and the inclusion of original documentation and expert judgment by Professor W.G. Lambert from the British Museum. Such pieces are seldom encountered, making this a prized acquisition for any collection dedicated to the ancient world.

Transcription of the museum judging rapport from professor W.G. Lambert from the British Museum:
Finger Ring of Bronze. 54mm x53mm x 27mm. This has a circular hoop apparently made from strands of metal, and a very large bezel that is round with notched outer edge. The design on the face of the bezel consist of an outer band, plain save for the zig-zag edge, and within it a complicated design with matching halves forming two rough heart shapes with fillings at the sides. Save for the divide line the design is based on curving lines. The back of the bezel also bears a design perhaps, but its condition make an interpretation difficult.
This comes from a culture of ancient Iran or west central Asia which is so far unknown, so the date is difficult to suggest, however, c. 1000-1BC is probably the correct period. The ring was hardly for daily use, but may have been part of grave goods. It is covered with heavy incrustation. W.G. Lambert