Burma, “Naga” dragon ring, high carat gold (22K +) enameled and set with 27 cabochons consisting of rubies, sapphires, emeralds, diamonds and other precious stones, second half 18th Century
These impressive and rare dragon rings have been a feature of all the great ring collections, including the Harari, Guilhou, Spitzer, Franks, and Koch collections. They are known as ‘Naga rings’ because they are thought to represent the naga dragon which is thought to have sheltered the Buddha during a prolonged period of meditation. Chadour suggests that these rings were made for Royalty. The extravagant design certainly re-enforces the idea that they were made for lavish ceremonial use. Another example is in the British Museum.