Balinese Barong Ring

Balinese Barong Ring

Balinese Barong Ring is an innovative piece of jewelry design that masterfully translates the mythological Balinese Barong, a lion-like creature and spiritual guardian figure from Indonesian mythology, into wearable art. Created by Singaporean designer Andrew Lam in 2018, this culturally significant piece demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship through its integration of traditional Balinese symbolism with contemporary jewelry-making techniques. The ring features intricate detailing that captures the essence of the Barong, traditionally known as the king of spirits and the leader of good forces in Balinese mythology, opposing the demon queen Rangda. Meticulously crafted through digital sculpting and traditional lost-wax casting processes, the ring is available in two distinctive finishes: oxidized sterling silver and an opulent 18k yellow gold version with a white gold base, featuring ruby eyes that enhance its mystical character. The design, measuring approximately 22mm in height, width, and 25mm in depth, successfully balances elaborate cultural detailing with practical wearability. This sophisticated interpretation of Balinese cultural elements in contemporary jewelry earned recognition at the A' Design Award competition, receiving an Iron A' Design Award in the Jewelry Design category, acknowledging its innovative approach to cultural preservation through modern design. The piece exemplifies a harmonious fusion of digital design technology with traditional metalworking techniques, while maintaining the powerful spiritual symbolism associated with the Barong figure in Balinese culture.

jewelry design, cultural symbolism, Balinese mythology, contemporary craftsmanship, precious metals, spiritual guardianship

— Adam Dawson

CITATION : "Adam Dawson. 'Balinese Barong Ring.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=438254 (Accessed on November 17, 2025)"