Safavid ring with calligraphic decoration - Lot 268

Safavid ring with calligraphic decoration Gold Iran, Safavid period (1501-1722) Inside diameter 2.2 cm; Weight 6.6 g This ring features a calligraphic inscription organized in two inverted registers on the bezel. Rings of this shape featuring calligraphy were very popular during the Safavid period. A number of examples are known using organized calligraphy on bezels, sometimes circular, sometimes in jade. Here, the bezel is octagonal. The swollen shape of the upper part of the ring is a survival of the Seljuk style. For a polygonal ring with calligraphic decoration from the Safavid period, see : Content D.J. (1987), Islamic Rings and Gems: The Zucker Collection, Philip Wilson Publishers Ltd, ill. 93, p.146-147.