Medieval Lead Seal Matrix of Ralph Son of Martin

Pointed outer edge on a rounded loop, bifid knop on either end of the strap bar, surface decorated with stylised vegetal ornaments. 253 grams, 95 mm



Private collection, UK.

These buckles usually have one rectangular and one rounded D-shaped loop on either side of the central bar. During the late 16th and 17th centuries, the range of asymmetrical buckles became wide.

The hoop expanding at the base, lentoid-shaped bezel with stylised eagle with its wings spread open. 7.57 grams, 24.14 mm overall, 19.12 mm internal diameter (approximate size British O 1/2, USA 7 1/4, Europe 15.61, Japan 15)



Acquired on the UK and EU art market before 2000. From the private collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

These kind of rings, possibly used as signet rings, find their parallels with artefacts from Eastern Europe, especially in the area of Smederevo. Comparison elements can support a 15th-century A.D. date.

Niello plaque depicting the marriage ceremony between Mary and Joseph, set in a gilt brass mount with a rope twist border, four loops for attachment. 10.8 grams, 46 mm



Private collection, Europe. Acquired on the Belgian art market.

Niello is a black mixture, usually of sulphur, copper, silver and lead. It is used as an inlay on engraved or etched metal, especially silver. It is added as a powder or paste, then fired until it melts or at least softens and flows or is pushed into the engraved lines in the metal. Men began wearing hat ornaments on their caps from the late fifteenth century, which could be either purely decorative or symbolic. Symbolic examples are traditionally known as enseignes, as they conveyed the wearer’s personal intent or a visible message. These jewels trace their origins to the medieval pilgrim badge, usually mass-produced in base metal. It is believed that this fashion shift to a stylish male accessory began when French king Charles VIII entered Naples in February 1495, wearing a gold circular jewel on his cap, while his men had similar, though not gold, jewels on their caps or sleeves. Italians quickly adopted this trend, which then spread to most European courts. However, this fashion declined in the late sixteenth to early seventeenth century, giving way to the popularity of aigrettes.