An engaging and authoritative overview of the evolution of ring design from the Middle Ages to today, illustrated with over 170 rare and luxurious examples. Rings are powerfully evocative pieces of jewelry, traditionally worn as symbols of love, loyalty, remembrance or faith. Focusing on the V&A''s world-famous collection, Rings tells the story of their evolution from sculptural gem-set bands worn in medieval times to Art Deco masterpieces, dramatic gemstone ''rocks'' of the 1950s, and innovative works of art created by contemporary jewellers.

Autorentext

Rachel Church is Curator in the Sculpture, Metalwork, Ceramics and Glass department at the V&A, with a special responsibility for the rings collection. She has contributed to a number of V&A publications, including The Gilbert Collection at the V&A (2009).

Inhalt

Introduction

1. 1200 - 1500
2. 1500 - 1700
3. 1700 - 1820
4. 1820 - 1900
5. 1900 - 1950
6. 1950 - Present