Description:

 A GREEN STONE RING WITH SHAHADA INSCRIPTION, 19TH CENTURY, PERSIA
Qajar Iran, 19th century

Description:
A silver ring set with a finely carved green hardstone intaglio, featuring a central inscription of the Shahada — the Islamic declaration of faith — in bold naskh script. The circular bezel is framed by a narrow raised border, and the inscription reads:
“La ilaha illa Allah, Muhammadun Rasul Allah, ‘Ali Wali Allah” (There is no god but God, Muhammad is the Messenger of God, ‘Ali is the friend of God).

The silver band is engraved with linear and foliate detailing and shows light signs of wear, indicating use while preserving its decorative appeal. The inscription is deeply and crisply carved, demonstrating excellent lapidary technique.

Dimensions:
Diameter: 2cm

Weight: 18g

Comparable examples:

  • A Qajar silver ring with carved green stone bearing the Shahada, Bonhams, Islamic and Indian Art, London, 24 October 2017, Lot 98, sold for £3,750. 

  • A similar devotional ring inscribed with names of God and imams, Sotheby’s, Arts of the Islamic World, London, 27 April 2022, Lot 143, sold for £4,250. 

  • A related example in the British Museum, London, accession no. 1865,1227.1034, published in Islamic Rings and Talismans, Scarce, 2008.

Provenance:
Private UK collection

Note:
Rings inscribed with the Shahada served as both religious declarations and protective amulets. In Shiʿa contexts, the inclusion of ‘Ali Wali Allah’ reinforces its devotional association. Such rings were commonly worn as expressions of faith, identity, and allegiance, particularly in Qajar Iran, where stone carving and personal piety were deeply intertwined.

 

Accepted Forms of Payment:

MasterCard, Visa, Wire Transfer

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May 6, 2025 1:00 PM BST
London, United Kingdom

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