I came up with a way to have a versatile hanging system that would work for either situation. I used double sided Velcro in a size that is in scale with the piece. This allows it to be opened up to accommodate a bar or rod (the standard for quilt shows is 4" opening), or tightened down to allow the ring to be mounted at the gallery. The ability to tighten down means the ring will not show above the piece.
I am extremely happy with the function of this hanging system and will use it on some of my other gallery bound pieces that are narrow at the top.