Here is an interesting concept that might link the two concepts together? Maybe the “ribbed” effect of the northern and southern Ringing Mountains were caused from the curvature? The image also places the Sea of Silt in the “middle” of the “known”/explored area described by the Wanderer.
Just an idea.
Original post - Alt-Athas, in progress
Image - Alt-Athas Ringed Tablelands Full Res by AdmundfortGeographer on DeviantArt