Stirrup Ring

Unknown

late 13th or early 14th century · Gold and sapphire · The Cloisters

The stirrup ring, with its distinctive form that suggests both a horse stirrup and a gothic arch, was in fashion from the twelfth century well into the fourteenth century. They were most commonly set with a sapphire and worn by both clergy and laymen. The present example is distinguished by its elegant simplicity. Less heavy than rings found in the tombs of clerics, which were generally worn over gloves, this example was most likely the finger ornament of a layman.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 13th or early 14th century

Medium

Gold and sapphire

Culture

British

Department

The Cloisters

Credit line

The Cloisters Collection, 2015