I need help identifying the text on this ring I recently acquired. I believe it to be Arabic calligraphy on an agate stone, and it to read: "Mirza Baba his servant", which was an Iranian artist during the Qajar dynasty. That could place this piece 1789-1834, but I'm not exactly sure. Any helpful thoughts?
Oh, M Eddy, I love hedgehogs, welcome. The stone is carnelian/cornelian, the name we give chalcedony (a form of quartz, which is also the main constituent of agates) when it is in the color range of pale to dark orange. The little I know is that rings with a carnelian stone are very popular with Muslim men because the Prophet was said to have worn one. Think they often have a Qur'anic verse. The translation you have for this one suggests a declaration of faithfulness on the part of the wearer. Think this is a case where AI did a pretty good job: Islamic carnelian (or Aqeeq/Aqiq) rings are a popular type of jewelry that holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in Islamic tradition. The Prophet Muhammad himself is reported to have worn a silver ring set with a carnelian stone, making wearing one a sunnah (a recommended practice) for many Muslims. Significance and Symbolism The carnelian stone, particularly the red or golden-orange variety from Yemen, is highly regarded in Islam. Divine Favor and Protection: According to some hadiths (sayings or traditions of the Prophet), wearing a carnelian ring is believed to guard against evil, banish poverty, and bring divine favor and happiness. Blessings and Courage: The stone is associated with bringing barakah (blessings), courage, protection, and tranquility to the wearer. Historical Context: Prophet Muhammad used his carnelian and silver ring as a seal for letters sent to rulers inviting them to Islam, with the engraving "Muhammad rasool Allah". Many rings today feature similar calligraphic engravings of Quranic verses or holy names.
I just wanted to see a little better: The simple construction of the ring is not inconsistent with the early 19th century, but could have made any time in a span of what I would think is hundreds of years. I don't know how to establish whether this Mirza Baba is the artist or another of the same name.
