7th century AD or later. A massive bronze ring with rounded hoop and embossed bezel, bearing the inscription '?(???)? ????? ?C????' = Lord protects Isifan (name?) Cf. Orsi, Sicilia Bizantina, Roma, 1942; Baldini Lippolis, I., L'Oreficeria nell'Impero di Costantinopoli tra IV e VII secolo, Bari, 1999, no.4-5, p.211, for similar rings. 12.80 grams, 22.52mm overall, 16.71mm internal diameter (approximate size British M, USA 6, Europe 12.46, Japan 12) (1"). Property of a gentleman from Vienna; from his private collection formed since 1970. The shape and decoration of this ring resembles ancient prototypes from 7th century Sicily, and the inscription finds parallels in two rings published by Orsi (1952, 150-151 and 157, figs. 66-67"). However, the word Isifan recalls an Arabic or Turkish name, which could suggest a post-Byzantine production. [No Reserve] For this specific lot, 5% import VAT is applicable on the hammer price

Fine condition. A large wearable size.