Medieval Gold Posy Ring
This piece has found a new home
We source pieces like this from auctions and private collections across Europe. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know when something similar arrives.
Ask about a similar piece
From the Journal
Medieval Rings: Stirrup Rings, Posy Rings and the Power of Stones
含税。
运费将在结账时计算。
Drop A Hint
Visit Our London Showroom
Our London showroom is open by appointment only.
Email
info@ravensburyantiques.com
to arrange a visit.
-
A rare and evocative Medieval posy ring, dating to the 14th century and crafted in high-karat gold.This piece was discovered in Staffordshire by a metal detectorist and subsequently recorded with the Portable Antiquities Scheme. It was analysed by the British Museum and later disclaimed as ‘Treasure’ (see final images for documentation). A copy of the official report will be included with the ring.The band is engraved with a series of fine diagonal striations, dividing the surface into six distinct panels. Each section contains a Gothic letter paired with a stylised foliate motif, likely oak leaves. Together, the letters spell A M A V I E, an abbreviated form of the Old French phrase “A ma vie”—translating as “[he or she] has my life.” This poignant inscription is recorded in Joan Evans’ English Posies and Posy Rings (1931, p. 5), and was commonly exchanged between lovers during the Middle Ages.Rings of this kind were gifted as betrothal or wedding bands and often bore inscriptions that encapsulated love, loyalty, and lifelong commitment. Few examples with engravings on the exterior survive today in such wearable condition, especially with clearly legible lettering and original decorative engraving.UK size J½ (US size 5).The band measures 3 mm in width.Tests as high-karat gold (approximately 19K–20K).A rare example of 14th-century craftsmanship and sentimentality, preserved across the centuries.
A rare and evocative Medieval posy ring, dating to the 14th century and crafted in high-karat gold.
This piece was discovered in Staffordshire by a metal detectorist and subsequently recorded with the Portable Antiquities Scheme. It was analysed by the British Museum and later disclaimed as ‘Treasure’ (see final images for documentation). A copy of the official report will be included with the ring.
The band is engraved with a series of fine diagonal striations, dividing the surface into six distinct panels. Each section contains a Gothic letter paired with a stylised foliate motif, likely oak leaves. Together, the letters spell A M A V I E, an abbreviated form of the Old French phrase “A ma vie”—translating as “[he or she] has my life.” This poignant inscription is recorded in Joan Evans’ English Posies and Posy Rings (1931, p. 5), and was commonly exchanged between lovers during the Middle Ages.
Rings of this kind were gifted as betrothal or wedding bands and often bore inscriptions that encapsulated love, loyalty, and lifelong commitment. Few examples with engravings on the exterior survive today in such wearable condition, especially with clearly legible lettering and original decorative engraving.
UK size J½ (US size 5).
The band measures 3 mm in width.
Tests as high-karat gold (approximately 19K–20K).
A rare example of 14th-century craftsmanship and sentimentality, preserved across the centuries.
我们的承诺
我们始终保证所售每一件作品均为真品
所有订单均享 30 天无理由退货
所有商品均以礼盒包装并精心包好，全球免费保险寄送
我们以极致的用心检验、描述并拍摄每一件珠宝
