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Onyx Ring, from the Colmar Treasure

second half 13th–early 14th century

Not on view

The clasped hands on this jewel, known as a Hands in Faith ("Fede" or "Mani in fede") ring, follow a widespread tradition that traces to Roman times and remains common today. Onyx, on the other hand, is highly unusual among medieval rings. A lapidary treatise written in Hebrew about 1290 asserts that if a person "wants to talk to his dead friend" in his dreams he should put on an onyx ring. Could the ring’s inscription "I heard, I see" ("AVDI, VIDI") reflect this tender notion?

Onyx Ring, from the Colmar Treasure, Gold and onyx — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Onyx Ring, from the Colmar Treasure, Gold and onyx

Onyx Ring, from the Colmar Treasure, Gold and onyx

Onyx Ring, from the Colmar Treasure, Gold and onyx

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.

Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Onyx Ring, from the Colmar Treasure

Date: second half 13th–early 14th century

Medium: Gold and onyx

Dimensions: 7/8 × 3/4 in. (2.3 × 2 cm)

Classification: Metalwork-Gold

Credit Line: Musée de Cluny – Musée National du Moyen Âge, Paris (Cl.20668)

Accession Number: SL.16.2019.4.13

The Met

Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.