Medieval Bronze Ring with Cross

The keeled hoop with three X-motifs, two stylised animal heads supporting the oval bezel inscribed with Lombardic letters (letters M and X separated by decorative motifs, cross to the top); the possibly earlier intaglio with a draped bust of an empress (Faustina the Younger?) in profile to the left, with an elongated neck and curled hair tied back in a bun at the nape of the neck. 5.98 grams, 22.96 mm overall, 18.46 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P 1/2, USA 7 3/4, Europe 16.86, Japan 16)



Acquired at Christie's, New York (Antiquities Sale), circa 2000. Important North West London collection. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.11818-204560.

It is likely that the inscription is abbreviation for 'Memento Mori', meaning 'remember you must die', accompanied by a cross and X for Christ. This imagery served as a reminder to the Christians to keep their soul in good order for the final judgment.

Composed of tools, fittings, cleavers, sickles, spurs, rowels and various other miscellaneous artefacts. 5.9 kg total, 15-35.5 cm



Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection.

The spurs in this group can be identified and chronologically dated due to the multipoint rowels, which are typical of mid-late 15th century A.D. The rapid development of the armour in 15th century did not influence the trend for necks of rowel-spurs to considerably increase in length, a style which persisted well into the first half of 16th century A.D.

Of various types, including examples retaining rivets and articulate tongues, with decorative designs including foliage, openwork geometric forms and pierced quatrefoils; one example with textile within the buckle plate; a fragmentary buckle head with enigmatic incised inscription. 32 grams total, 28-51 mm



Acquired on the UK market, 1990s. Property of a retired academic.