16th century AD or later. A silver ring with semi-circular cross-section hoop, expanding keeled shoulders supporting a round bezel with inscription '?????????' (= of Nikephoros"). See Papanikola-Bakirtzi, D., Byzantine Hours. Works and Days in Byzantium. Daily Life in Byzantium, Athens, 2002, no.599, for the type. 3.63 grams, 19.46mm overall, 16.25mm internal diameter (approximate size British K 1/2, USA 5 1/2, Europe 10.58, Japan 10) (3/4"). Property of a gentleman from Vienna; from his private collection formed since 1970. The ring imitates a typology of 11th-12th century rings, although the effect of the sloping sides of the hoop is more simplified and less elegant of the prototypes. [No Reserve] For this specific lot, 5% import VAT is applicable on the hammer price