This sculptural ring has been cast in brass or bronze with a fine bezel in the form of an African cobra with its hood open and raised.
Such a ring would have been worn to suggest the power and status of its wearer.
The ring has substantial wear with softened contours. It is marked to the inside of the hoop with an old collection inventory number.
References
van Cutsem, A., A World of Rings: Africa, Asia, America, Skira, 2000.