Rare medieval archer ring engraved in silver Tensioning thumb ring finely engraved with an Islamic arch dating from the 12th / 13th century AD. This silver archer ring, elongated and finishing in a tip, is decorated with engraved arabesques on the shoulder. On the back, a raised rosette adorning the ring. Near East, Iran - Perfect state of preservation - Diameter: 6.3 cm. Used in antiquity, these archer rings - or thumb rings - allowed archers to shoot their arrows accurately while protecting their finger. Of cylindrical in shape in the Far East, they later adopt a specific form in the Muslim world, with a flat-tipped ending. These archer rings, in addition to their practical use, had symbolic value. They could be worn at the thumb or hung at the waist to subtly show the qualities of the bearer in the art of war and hunting. Former history: S.H.R. gallery, ref 5917. Old private Swiss collection built-up in the 1980s The seller can prove that the lot was obtained legally, declaration of provenance seen by Catawiki. Important information: The seller guarantees that they are authorised to sell / export this lot. The seller will make sure that the necessary authorisations, such as an export licence, are obtained (passport for cultural items). The seller will inform the buyer should this take more than a few days.