English Medieval Silver Ring
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From the Journal
Medieval Rings: Stirrup Rings, Posy Rings and the Power of Stones
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A substantial and intriguing late medieval silver ring, dating to the 15th century, c. 1400–1500. This style of ring is often referred to as "iconographic" due to its distinctive rectangular bezel and angled sides, which in religious examples were engraved with depictions of saints. However, not all iconographic rings bore religious imagery—this example features a more abstract and stylised design.The rectangular bezel has a raised central ridge, flanked by two sloping facets. Each surface is incised with decorative motifs that appear foliate or geometric in nature. While these motifs are unusual and not immediately identifiable as religious figures, they may be symbolic or even figurative in a more abstract sense. The shoulders are engraved with cross pattée and stylised foliage motifs, separated by linear ridges that taper into a flat, 4mm-wide band at the back.This piece has a wonderful dark patina and remains unpolished, though it can be cleaned to restore shine if desired. Its condition is very good for its age, with all motifs clearly legible and the structure sound.Rings of this kind were worn widely in the 15th century by both men and women, and across all social classes. Period portraits often depict individuals wearing multiple rings, sometimes on every finger. Surviving examples suggest these rings were sometimes exchanged as gifts, including as New Year’s tokens or betrothal keepsakes.This ring is a UK size U (US size 10) and weighs 7.59 grams.A very similar example can be found in the National Museum of Wales, item number 2014.39H. Comparable finds reported via the Portable Antiquities Scheme include WILT-2452A0, BUC-0F38B7 and WILT-B847E9, all dated to the 15th century and demonstrating similar construction and engraved details.A rare and wearable relic from the medieval world, this ring offers a fascinating glimpse into the jewellery traditions of late medieval England.
A substantial and intriguing late medieval silver ring, dating to the 15th century, c. 1400–1500. This style of ring is often referred to as "iconographic" due to its distinctive rectangular bezel and angled sides, which in religious examples were engraved with depictions of saints. However, not all iconographic rings bore religious imagery—this example features a more abstract and stylised design.
The rectangular bezel has a raised central ridge, flanked by two sloping facets. Each surface is incised with decorative motifs that appear foliate or geometric in nature. While these motifs are unusual and not immediately identifiable as religious figures, they may be symbolic or even figurative in a more abstract sense. The shoulders are engraved with cross pattée and stylised foliage motifs, separated by linear ridges that taper into a flat, 4mm-wide band at the back.
This piece has a wonderful dark patina and remains unpolished, though it can be cleaned to restore shine if desired. Its condition is very good for its age, with all motifs clearly legible and the structure sound.
Rings of this kind were worn widely in the 15th century by both men and women, and across all social classes. Period portraits often depict individuals wearing multiple rings, sometimes on every finger. Surviving examples suggest these rings were sometimes exchanged as gifts, including as New Year’s tokens or betrothal keepsakes.
This ring is a UK size U (US size 10) and weighs 7.59 grams.
A very similar example can be found in the National Museum of Wales, item number 2014.39H. Comparable finds reported via the Portable Antiquities Scheme include WILT-2452A0, BUC-0F38B7 and WILT-B847E9, all dated to the 15th century and demonstrating similar construction and engraved details.
A rare and wearable relic from the medieval world, this ring offers a fascinating glimpse into the jewellery traditions of late medieval England.
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