Large Medieval Bronze Strap End with Dragon

Circular seal matrix with an eight-pointed star or flower as the central device, surrounded by a retrograde legend reading '+S'WILL'I FIL' ANSELLI-' with the final symbol being a place filler, translating to 'seal of William son of Ansell', the reverse with an incomplete suspension lug and an inked collector's note; accompanied by a museum-quality impression. 14.7 grams total, 28 mm



Found whilst searching with a metal detector in Brookland, Kent, UK. Property of a Kent gentleman, a specialist medieval collector. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report no.KENT-FAD34F.

Of episcopal type, centred by a square cabochon sapphire in a closed-back collet, four smaller collet settings arranged around the central setting set with emerald and amethyst cabochons, the bezel supported by a narrow flat-section hoop. 1.94 grams, 22.42 mm overall, 19.35 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P, USA 7 1/2, Europe 16.23, Japan 15)



Acquired on the European art market. UK, private collection. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.13501-263469.

Finger rings with a principal stone and subsidiary settings in separate collets came into use in the early 13th century, and this form of simple low collar continued in use to the 15th century.

Modelled in round on a discoid platform, engraved mane, head and leg details. 47 grams, 39 mm



Acquired on the UK art market in the 1980s. From an East Anglian private collection.