Acoustic Guitar Construction

This looks like an inner ring that has been glued to the soundhole, is a little proud of the top, encircled by what looks like wire.

But I really can't tell. Any ideas?

I don't think so, just a normal channel -- check out the grain, the slight mismatch is an optical illusion caused by the extreme round over of the SH circumference. But if I am all wet and your assessment is correct what's the point of that feature and required complicated process? $.02

I am with Ken, the un-distorted reflections led me to believe that the ring was level with the rosette and the top. I think it is just a cut channel.

Those Laurent Brondel thin, laminated back braces sure look cool.

Good, it was the mismatch in grain that threw me.