Large Medieval Enamelled Bronze 'Crowned R' Stud

Architectural column capital modelling with curled acanthus leaves rising from a narrow central stem, splayed and with scrolled tendril detailing; pierced to accept locating studs. 118.4 kg, 46 cm



Acquired 1970s-1996. Property of a North American collector. London collection, 2016. Private collection, UK.

D-section hoop and disc bezel with 'R' between fronds. 6.80 grams, 27.20 mm overall, 21.73 mm internal diameter (approximate size British X 1/2, USA 11 3/4, Europe 26.92, Japan 25)



From the collection of Dame Joan Evans (1893-1977), thence gifted during her lifetime to a gentleman collector friend from South East England.

Dame Joan Evans, DBE, FSA, FRHistS, enjoyed a long and distinguished career as an author and historian. She was appointed the president of the Society of Antiquaries in 1959, the first woman to hold this position, serving until 1964. From 1948 to 1951, Joan Evans served as President of the Royal Archaeological Institute. She received the Society’s gold medal in 1973. Joan Evans was honoured with a host of honorary degrees and fellowships, as well as fellowships of the Royal Historical Society and the Royal Society of Literature. She was a Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur, and was appointed a Dame of the British Empire in 1976. She served as a trustee of both the London and the British museums, and as a member of the advisory council of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

The frame formed as a couple with joined hands raised to head-height and the other hand placed on the chest, dancing on a curved baseline; tongue coiled about the waist of the male. 8.82 grams, 34 mm



Ex Norwich, UK, dealer, early 1980s. From a London, UK, private collection since the 1980s.