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Details
LOT 1861
Medieval Signet Bronze Ring with Web
15TH-16TH CENTURY A.D.
1 in. (7.99 grams, 23.53 mm overall, 18.97 mm internal diameter (approximate size British Q 1/2, USA 8 1/4, Europe 18.12, Japan 17)).
Comprising a D-section expanding hoop and an oval bezel with a grid design resembling a spider's web. [No Reserve]
Provenance
Acquired on the UK and EU art market before 2000.
From the private collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
Literature
Cf. PAS no. NMS-F36D46, for the type of signet rings, with a D-section hoop and an oval bezel engraved with a merchant's mark.
Footnotes
In the Middle Ages, the signet ring became a distinctive sign of belonging to a specific noble family or clan, or Guild. The ring, with the coat of arms or symbol of the Guild or Corporation engraved on the bezel, was pressed onto melted sealing wax to seal letters, edicts, and contracts, guaranteeing the document's authenticity.
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