Gimmel ring (Twin ring)

second half 16th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 520

This two-part ring of interlaced gold hoops is inscribed with a German phrase that translates to “Those whom God hath joined together let no man put asunder.” This type of ring was commonly used as a wedding band during the Renaissance. A gimmal ring with a similar message featured in the marriage ceremony of Protestant reformer Martin Luther (1483–1546) and Katharina von Bora (1499–1552), a former Cistercian nun.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Provenance

Title: Gimmel ring (Twin ring)
Date: second half 16th century
Culture: Southern German
Medium: Gold, enamel, rubies, emerald
Dimensions: Overall: 1 1/8 × 1/2 in. (2.9 × 1.3 cm);
Diameter (hoop): 1 in. (2.5 cm)
Classifications: Metalwork-Gold and Platinum, Jewelry
Credit Line: The Lesley and Emma Sheafer Collection, Bequest of Emma A. Sheafer, 1973
Object Number: 1974.356.649
Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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