Ca. 600-800 AD. A gold ring featuring a round-section twisted hoop that elegantly wraps around the finger, creating a delicate yet sturdy base for the bezel cell. The bezel is set with a breathtaking garnet intaglio, masterfully engraved with the image of a left-facing peacock. The peacock, a symbol of immortality and resurrection in ancient Byzantine culture, is depicted with stunning detail and precision. Its elegant head, crowned with a majestic crest, is turned slightly to the side, revealing a sharp and powerful beak. The peacock's body is richly adorned with intricate plumage, meticulously rendered with fine lines and delicate curves. Its graceful legs are confidently planted on the ground, while its long and vibrant tail feathers cascade behind it in a striking display of beauty and grandeur. This ring is a testament to the enduring legacy of Byzantine gold jewelry, which was highly prized for its exceptional beauty and symbolic significance. Byzantine goldsmiths were renowned for their unparalleled skill in creating intricate designs and using precious gems and metals to create stunning works of art.Size: D: 16.1mm / US: 5 1/2 / UK: K 1/2 ; 2.85gProvenance: Private London collection, UK art market before 2000.