The Met Store Rings*Herakles Knot Ring

Unique gifts for her.

This eye-catching ring borrows the Herakles knot on a 2nd-century bracelet from Egypt in The Met collection. The ancient Greeks named this simple but strong knot in reference to the mythical hero Herakles, who used it to tie the skin of the slain Nemean lion around his neck upon fulfilling the first of his legendary 12 labors. Because of its affiliation with Herakles, celebrated for his strength and bravery, the knot was considered a protective amulet. It also assumed association with marriage and fertility. The Herakles knot remained a popular ornamental form into Roman times, as exemplified by the Museum’s Roman-period bracelet. 

Read about the Museum treasure behind this jewelry and shop other art-inspired designs in our blog post here.