Thumb Ring Collection

Archers thumb ring, Eastern Zhou period, 5th / 4th century B. C. Creator: Unknown
Archers thumb ring, Eastern Zhou period, 5th/4th century B.C

Hand Ornament (Hathphul) and Thumb Ring (Arsi), 19th century. Creator: Unknown
Hand Ornament (Hathphul) and Thumb Ring (Arsi), 19th century

Posthumous portrait of Richard III (1452-85) 1580-1610 (oil on panel)
SGS106179 Posthumous portrait of Richard III (1452-85) 1580-1610 (oil on panel) by English School, (16th century); 83.8x55.9 cm; Private Collection; eBerger Collection Educational Trust; English

Portrait of a Lady in an Elaborate Embroidered Costume, 1640 (oil on canvas)
BAL93448 Portrait of a Lady in an Elaborate Embroidered Costume, 1640 (oil on canvas) by Sanders, Hercules (1606-63); 127.5x102.5 cm; Private Collection; Johnny Van Haeften Ltd

Thumb Ring 17th Century China Qing dynasty 1644-1911
Thumb Ring, 17th Century. China, Qing dynasty (1644-1911). Jade; diameter: 4.2 cm (1 5/8 in.); overall: 2.8 cm (1 1/8 in.)

Thumb Ring 1800s-1900s China 19th-20th century
Thumb Ring, 1800s-1900s. China, 19th-20th century. White jade; overall: 6.8 cm (2 11/16 in.)

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The thumb ring, a fascinating artifact that spans centuries and cultures, has served various purposes throughout history. Dating back to the Eastern Zhou period in the 5th/4th century B. C. , archers utilized thumb rings as essential tools for their craft. These rings, crafted by unknown creators, provided stability and control when drawing back the bowstring, enhancing accuracy and power. Moving forward to the 19th century, we encounter a hand ornament known as Hathphul paired with an Arsi thumb ring. Once again created by unknown artisans, this combination showcases intricate craftsmanship and highlights the cultural significance of adorning one's hand. In portraits from different eras, such as King Richard III in c. 1575 or a posthumous depiction of him between 1580-1610, we catch glimpses of individuals wearing thumb rings. These images hint at the regal nature associated with these accessories during that time. Fast-forwarding to 1640s Europe, we find a portrait of a lady dressed in an elaborate embroidered costume; her ensemble is completed with an oil on canvas painting featuring yet another thumb ring. This suggests that even among high society circles, these ornaments were considered fashionable adornments. Returning to ancient China during its Qing dynasty (1644-1911), we discover more Chinese thumb rings dating back to the 17th century. The precise artistry displayed on these pieces reflects both functionality and aesthetic appeal. As we delve further into China's history during the late 19th and early 20th centuries through additional thumb ring artifacts from this era—each sharing similar characteristics—we witness how this accessory remained prevalent over time within Chinese culture. From aiding archers' precision thousands of years ago to being embraced as fashion statements across different societies throughout history—the enigmatic allure surrounding these thumb rings persists today. Their timeless beauty continues captivating us while reminding us of our connection to past civilizations and the enduring appeal of ornate hand adornments.