Description
Ringstones are among the earliest works of art to be created in stone during India's historical period. This example is finely carved with detailed images of affectionate couples and palm trees, running animals, and geometric motifs in concentric circles. The function of ringstones remains uncertain, since none of the surviving examples is inscribed or explained in a text.
Provenance
(Julian Sherrier, London, UK, sold to the Cleveland Museum of Art) (?–1977); The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (1977–)
Accession Number
1977.36
Medium
steatite
Dimensions
Diameter: 10.2 cm (4 in.)
Classification
Sculpture
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund