Medieval Pilgrim's Holy Water Ampulla Collection

Composed of a circular die and facetted stem with hexagonal cross-section and loop handle, engraved rabbit or hare facing right at centre, with surrounding Latin legend 'PRIVE SVI' ('I am Private'); accompanied by an impression. 5.9 grams, 18 mm



Found Berkshire, UK. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report no.BERK-B20AA3.

Engraved with two crosses fourchée within a circular frame, flanking crescents. 2.36 grams, 22.74mm overall, 20.30mm internal diameter (approximate size British R 1/2, USA 8 3/4, Europe 19.38, Japan 18)



English collection, 1980s. Acquired on the UK art market. Ex property of an Essex gentleman. Ex private Merseyside, UK, collection.

The use of seals became more and more essential during the time when the majority of the population was illiterate; the use of signet rings continued until after the fall of Rome in the West. With the establishment of heraldry, the armorial signet was generally adopted by all those entitled to bear arms. A considerable proportion of medieval rings were signets, with portraits, names or monograms, and emblems such as the cross, most of these having the designs cut in a metal bezel.

Each with a raised design to one or both faces. including floral, pelletted and other designs. 145 grams total, 29-50 mm



Found Berkshire, UK.