C. 1100-1300 AD. Byzantine. A large silver gilt ring with a circular hoop, heavy band featuring lozenge-shaped decoration on the shoulders and a circular plate bezel bearing an engraved eagle in flight framed by stylised cloud motifs. The eagle came to be used by the Roman Empire and its medieval successor state, the Byzantine Empire, because it symbolized dominance over the known world. Byzantium was justly famous for the elegance of its jewellery, whether in precious metals for the aristocracy, or in bronze for people further down the social ladder. This beautiful ring probably once belonged to a military officer. Excellent condition; wearable.Size: D: 19.84mm / US: 10 / UK: T1/2; 22g; Provenance: From the private collection of a Somerset gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1990s on the UK /European art markets.