1100-1300 AD. Byzantine. Gold ring with niello details comprising round hoop with Greek lettering and rosette-shaped plate bezel, depicting Christ with long hair and beard, flanked by the Greek letters “TAG” (AG = Agios, “holy”). Byzantium was justly famous for the elegance of its jewellery, whether in precious metals for the royalty and aristocracy, or in bronze for people further down the social ladder. This beautiful item may have belonged to a member of the nobility. XRF analysis by an independent Belgian laboratory. All samples correspond to the metal content of the period specified; no modern trace elements were detected in the patina; expertly cleaned and conserved. Excellent condition; wearable.Size: D: 15.8mm / US: 5 1/8 / UK: K; 7g; Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed before 2000.