Amuletic Bronze Rings from the Arab-Byzantine Transitional Period

Abstract

The rings published here bear eclectic images and inscriptions. The images themselves are
depicted on amuletic armbands described by Vikan (1991–1992), as are the first words of Psalm
90 (91). The principal innovation marking the iconic group as truly eclectic is the two Arabic
inscriptions, which are Islamic in character, in addition to the Greek inscription preceded by
a cross and the Gnostic iconography, dating the group to the latter part of the seventh century
CE. Similarities in certain of the aniconic rings with earlier Byzantine examples suggest a
common artistic and folkloristic tradition.