The Protector: The Ring of Saint Sisinnius
Discover the Georgian heirloom that guarded against evil forces
Golden Ring (1100/1200)Art Palace of Georgia - Museum of Cultural History
The turquoise stone set in this unique ring dates from late antiquity or the early Christian period, while the ring itself is dated to the 12th to 13th centuries.
The stone was reused and most likely depicts Saint Sisinnius of Antioch—a saint in the Christian tradition to who protective powers are attributed and who fights against evil forces.
Golden Ring (1100/1200)Art Palace of Georgia - Museum of Cultural History
His depiction occupies a significant place in Christian art and is considered one of the precursors to the iconography of St. George, the dragon slayer.
Similar compositions are also found in depictions of St. Solomon, St. Mercury, St. Theodore, Kaloyan, and St. Demetrius.
The ring is said to have once belonged to a high-ranking official of the Georgian government and was passed down as a family heirloom through the generations.
Golden Ring (1100/1200)Art Palace of Georgia - Museum of Cultural History
The object also bears certain similarities to the lost royal signet ring of King George III, which further underscores its historical significance.
Today, this remarkable heirloom is preserved within the collection of the Art Palace of Georgia – Museum of Cultural History.
George Kalandia
Irakli Zambakhidze
Nata Betsunaidze
Nini Samkharadze
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