Indonesian Ring with Tibetan Love Knot Motif

Smooth carved lines frame a tangled knot on an upright cream plaque.

This fossil mammoth tusk and sterling silver ring with Tibetan love knot motif is from Bali, Indonesia. Endless knots appear in Tibetan textiles, metalwork and painting, and they are often described as showing the unbroken link between cause and effect. Tall and creamy pale, the rectangular inlay has a raised, interlaced knot motif at its center. A thin bright inner edge surrounds it, and the outer frame is dark, pitted and rough.

Smooth carved lines against rough metal, an excellent contrast.