Details

LOT 0428

Medieval Gold Signet Ring with 'Indeed' Inscription and Lion

CIRCA 15TH CENTURY A.D.

1 in. (23.16 grams, 26.37 mm overall, 20.88 mm internal diameter (approximate size British W 1/2, USA 11 1/4, Europe 25.66, Japan 24)).

Comprising a heavy D-section hoop and a thick round bezel, engraved facing lion to the centre with inscription 'yn : dede' above for 'in deed' or indeed'. [No Reserve]

Provenance

Ex D.S. Lavendar, London, UK.
Property of a North American gallery, acquired in 2012.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.12121-214333.

Literature

Cf. The British Museum, London, inv.no.AF771, for a comparable ring.

Footnotes

The inscription, a means of expressing agreement, has not yet been matched to a particular family motto. However, the Anglo-Saxon words and the possible later date of the ring suggests that this is a motto descended from one of the Marcher Lords, or Knights Marchers. The latter occupied the border land between Wales and England, and were granted special privileges and status by William the Conqueror, and were virtually independent rulers.