Ring with Large Central Boss Flanked by Series of Same
Unknown Artist
Last quarter of the 10th–last quarter of the 15th century
Medium
Gold
Dimensions
H. 1/8 in. (0.3 cm); Diam. 1 in. (2.7 cm)
Classification
Jewelry
Culture & Period
Indonesia (Java) · Eastern Javanese period
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Samuel Eilenberg-Jonathan P. Rosen Collection of Indonesian Gold, Bequest of Samuel Eilenberg and Gift of Jonathan P. Rosen, 1998
Accession Number
1998.544.442
Art Historical Context
This exquisite gold ring, hailing from Java, Indonesia, during the Eastern Javan period (last quarter of the 10 to last quarter of the 15 century), showcases the region's masterful metalworking traditions. Measuring just 1 inch in diameter and 1/8 inch high, its petite form belies its striking design: a large central boss—a raised, rounded ornament—flanked by a series of identical smaller bosses. Crafted entirely from gold, a precious metal symbolizing wealth and divine favor in ancient Southeast Asian societies, this piece was likely worn by elites as a status symbol or talisman. The Eastern...