Lotus Petal Ring
Lotus Petal Ring
Champa or Pre-Angkor, present day Rach Gia, 7th-8th century
Gold, cast and repoussé with central stone
Diameter: 2 cm, Weight: 6 grams
This early ring is also very unusual primarily because it was crafted in two parts, each made from a different technique. The head of the ring is a casting of the lotus petal, while the shoulders and shank were made in repoussé. Casting is infrequently found in Cham art, specifically in items this small. This ring is normal in size, which suggests that it was made for personal use, perhaps for a lady. The design is delicate in detail and beautifully crafted with fine projections and a central red stone set in the casting. The Lotus Petal is a stylistic representation of Buddhism, which became popular in Funan around the 6th century. Funan existed in southwestern Vietnam and southern Cambodia from the 1st to the 7th century. Funan’s most important port was Oc Eo which was a hub for trade with India, China, the Arab Kingdoms and the west. The many monks who traveled through this port imported much of Buddhism and later Hinduism into Funan and by close proximity, into Champa.
Champa or Pre-Angkor, present day Rach Gia, 7th-8th century
Gold, cast and repoussé with central stone
Diameter: 2 cm, Weight: 6 grams
This early ring is also very unusual primarily because it was crafted in two parts, each made from a different technique. The head of the ring is a casting of the lotus petal, while the shoulders and shank were made in repoussé. Casting is infrequently found in Cham art, specifically in items this small. This ring is normal in size, which suggests that it was made for personal use, perhaps for a lady. The design is delicate in detail and beautifully crafted with fine projections and a central red stone set in the casting. The Lotus Petal is a stylistic representation of Buddhism, which became popular in Funan around the 6th century. Funan existed in southwestern Vietnam and southern Cambodia from the 1st to the 7th century. Funan’s most important port was Oc Eo which was a hub for trade with India, China, the Arab Kingdoms and the west. The many monks who traveled through this port imported much of Buddhism and later Hinduism into Funan and by close proximity, into Champa.