Medieval Duhamel Silver Signet
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A medieval French silver signet ring of about 1480, attributed to the noble Duhamel family.The octagonal bezel is engraved as a seal with the initial 'L', two stars and a heart above. The shoulders carry a 'fede' motif of clasped hands, the symbol of faith and fidelity, which is very unusual on a heraldic signet. The device was probably personal, perhaps for a Louis, Laurent or Lambert Duhamel.The Duhamels came from Normandy and Picardy and by the 15th century held lands in Brittany, Artois and Champagne; their recorded arms combine two stars with other charges. Signets like this were pressed into hot wax to seal letters and deeds. Comparable rings are in the British Museum, the V&A and the Alice and Louis Koch Collection (see final photo).A large, characterful seal ring with five centuries of history.Details: c.1480; France, probably Normandy or Picardy; solid silver; octagonal bezel 14mm x 12mm; band 6mm; UK V, US 10½ (large).Condition: Aged patina. Some cracks to the band, consistent with age and use, which a jeweller could stabilise if desired.
Further reading: Medieval Rings: Stirrup Rings, Posy Rings and the Power of Stones
A medieval French silver signet ring of about 1480, attributed to the noble Duhamel family.
The octagonal bezel is engraved as a seal with the initial 'L', two stars and a heart above. The shoulders carry a 'fede' motif of clasped hands, the symbol of faith and fidelity, which is very unusual on a heraldic signet. The device was probably personal, perhaps for a Louis, Laurent or Lambert Duhamel.
The Duhamels came from Normandy and Picardy and by the 15th century held lands in Brittany, Artois and Champagne; their recorded arms combine two stars with other charges. Signets like this were pressed into hot wax to seal letters and deeds. Comparable rings are in the British Museum, the V&A and the Alice and Louis Koch Collection (see final photo).
A large, characterful seal ring with five centuries of history.
Details: c.1480; France, probably Normandy or Picardy; solid silver; octagonal bezel 14mm x 12mm; band 6mm; UK V, US 10½ (large).
Condition: Aged patina. Some cracks to the band, consistent with age and use, which a jeweller could stabilise if desired.
Further reading: Medieval Rings: Stirrup Rings, Posy Rings and the Power of Stones
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