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Gold Signet Ring with Virgin and Child

6th–7th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 301
As Christianity became the dominant religion in Byzantine society, Christian imagery was increasingly found on jewelry. Crosses appear by the fifth century; the Virgin Mary, saints, angels, and other holy figures became popular in the sixth century. The images were thought to protect the wearer, aid in prayers, and even perform miracles.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Gold Signet Ring with Virgin and Child
  • Date: 6th–7th century
  • Culture: Byzantine
  • Medium: Gold
  • Dimensions: Overall: 1 5/16 x 15/16 x 1/2 in. (3.3 x 2.4 x 1.3 cm)
    band: 15/16 x 5/16 x 1/16 in. (2.4 x 0.8 x 0.1 cm)
  • Classification: Metalwork-Gold
  • Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
  • Object Number: 17.190.1654
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

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