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Jewish betrothal ring

17th or 19th century
Not on view
It is difficult to date and localize the large, ornamented rings that were created for use in synagogues during the wedding ritual. However, there is ample evidence that examples such as this one were exchanged during Italian Jewish weddings. The groom would place it on the bride's finger, but after the ceremony the ring would have been kept as a prized memento by either the family or the temple community. The gable roof—perhaps symbolizing the Temple of Jerusalem—opens to reveal the words "Good Luck."

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Jewish betrothal ring
  • Date: 17th or 19th century
  • Culture: Eastern European or Italian
  • Medium: Gold, enamel
  • Dimensions: Overall: 7/8 × 1 3/4 in. (2.2 × 4.4 cm)
  • Classifications: Metalwork-Gold and Platinum, Jewelry, Precious Metals and Precious Stones, Judaica
  • Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917t
  • Object Number: 17.190.996
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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