Deep Song Ring

The work of Federico García Lorca inspired the name of this ring.

In 1921, Lorca published a group of poems titled Poem of the Deep Song (Poema Del Cante Jondo).

Cante jondo, or "deep song," is a profound and emotive musical form that emerged from a rich tapestry of cultural influences in Andalusian Spain. It developed among those who sought refuge in the mountains during the 15th century to escape the Spanish Inquisition. This genre blends elements from Arabic instruments, Sephardic rituals, Byzantine liturgy, native folk traditions, and the rhythms of Gypsy life, creating a unique and powerful expression of emotion. The intensity and depth of cante jondo reflect a deep connection to history and personal experience, making it a moving and significant part of musical heritage.

Deep song resonates on a profound level because it taps into complex emotions and experiences. 

Lorca writes that “Cante jondo is like the trilling of birds, the cry of the cockerel, and the natural music of woods and streams.”

The green of this ring reminds me of this line. It is many greens at once. Lorca calls cante jondo, “these pure and truthful songs”.

A ring is a ring, no more or less than that. Poetry comes when the ring is worn, as the stories of the wearer become present in the experience of wearing it.

The form of this ring is simple, yet it carries a rough, natural charm, as if hewn from wood. With its sole purpose of holding the stone, the setting is secure and trustworthy, holding the stone with unwavering conviction.

This sapphire is sourced from Northern Queensland. Its colour is deep green, determined by the mineral content of the land in which it was formed.

It is a lofty call to name a ring after a subject so rich and profound, however the power of the jewellery object is stronger than the material aspects of its form, much like people and the unwavering power of storytelling.

There is one of these rings and it is exclusive to my studio.

All quotes by Lorca are taken from a lecture he gave in 1922, on the Deep Song: A lecture given in Granada, 19th February 1922

https://www.poetryintranslation.com/PITBR/Spanish/DeepSong.php