Gold Signet Ring with Virgin and Child

Unknown

6th–7th century · Gold · Medieval Art

As Christianity became the dominant religion in Byzantine society, Christian imagery was increasingly found on jewelry. Crosses appear by the fifth century; the Virgin Mary, saints, angels, and other holy figures became popular in the sixth century. The images were thought to protect the wearer, aid in prayers, and even perform miracles.

Artist

Unknown

Date

6th–7th century

Medium

Gold

Culture

Byzantine

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917