Ring with incised Sri device

Title
Ring with incised Sri device
Year/Period
800-1000
Region
Central Java, Indonesia
Material
Dimension
Object size: L2.1 x W1.95 cm
Accession No.
1997-03638
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Andy Ng

This cast gold ring likely dates to between the 9th and 11th centuries. It is inscribed with a device or motif associated with the goddess Devi Sri, a consort of Vishnu linked to fertility and good fortune. In its original form the motif was made up of the three characters which form her name. Over time it became highly stylised and is sometimes identified as a lotus motif. Sri was much admired and venerated in Javanese religion - an eclectic mix of Hinduism and Buddhism, and even today continues to be worshipped as a cult goddess.