Ring Fragment
Unknown Artist
ca. 1390–1352 B.C.
Medium
Carnelian
Dimensions
Diam. 2 cm (13/16 in)
Classification
Ring fragment
Period
New Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1911
Accession Number
11.215.123
Art Historical Context
This delicate ring fragment, dating to around 1390–1352 B.C., hails from Egypt's New Kingdom during Dynasty 18—a golden age of imperial power and artistic splendor under pharaohs like Amenhotep III. Crafted from carnelian, a vibrant red-orange semi-precious stone prized by ancient Egyptians for its blood-like hue symbolizing vitality, protection, and the sun god Ra, this tiny piece (just 2 cm in diameter) offers a glimpse into elite jewelry traditions. Such rings were not mere adornments but multifunctional seals, often inscribed with royal names or motifs to authenticate documents or signify ...