BK-1981-54

About this artwork

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Art Historical Context

small gold ring, just under two centimeters across, displays an intricate filigree ornament at its center. Fine wires have been twisted and soldered into a dense pattern of curling stems, tiny blossoms, and what appears to be a small cross, all set against an openwork ground. The plain band behind it carries subtle stamped motifs of diamonds and leaves, while the overall surface catches the light with a warm, metallic glow. The piece is catalogued at the Rijksmuseum as BK-1981-54 and is attributed to Pierre Daniel Bellanger. Working in filigree during the mid-eighteenth century, Bellanger specialized in such delicate metalwork, transforming thin gold threads into jewelry of remarkable lightness and detail. Objects like this ring illustrate the refined craftsmanship prized in that period and offer visitors a close look at how traditional techniques could produce both wearable elegance and miniature sculpture.