Byzantine Style Gold Ring

Comprising six adult- and child-sized pattens, each a ring with extended tongue fitted with rivets to secure the ring to a wooden platform; some in a glazed wooden fabric-lined display case with labels and explanatory text, one with reproduction wooden sole and leather upper showing how the patent is attached. 6.05 kg total, 11.5-81 cm



From the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.

Iron pattens first came into use probably in 17th century A.D., and gained popularity during the first half of that century. The original design of the patten was as one piece of shaped wood attached beneath the sole of the shoe; this evolved into to a wooden platform attached to the underside of an iron ring. The pattens were thus forerunners of the Wellington boot which came into use in the 19th century A.D.

Modelled in the round on a square base, with separate posable head wearing a tall helmet with knop and feathers; black riding boots and cross-over robe beneath a mailcoat and armoured panels; painted facial features with clear eyes and eyebrows; hands supporting a curved bow by the neck and string. 537 grams, 24 cm



Ex North Yorkshire, UK, collection, 1990s.

Comprising four sickles and one pruning knife with crescent blade and the whittle tang handle terminating in a hook, two with reconstructed modern handle; one sickle with cutler's mark EE. 1.32 kg total, 20.5-37.5 cm



From the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.

Among our specimens a particular importance is given to the 13th century A.D. sickle with a maker's marks evident on the blade. Like many knives, sickles sometimes carry a cutler's mark. Sickles were produced in various sizes depending on the type of work they were to be used for. The large examples would have been used for clearing weeds or harvesting hay or crops. The small sickles would have been used for cutting herbs or similar.