Medieval 'Thames' Iron Stylus

Three cells, each with a granulated rim to the upper and lower faces, set with a turquoise seed bead. 0.77 grams, 19.48 mm overall, 17.66 mm internal diameter (approximate size British L, USA 5 3/4, Europe 11.24, Japan 10)



From the collection of a late Japanese gentleman, 1970-2000s.

The lower shank with twisted ropework detailing and carinated bands, the shoulders with raised median beaded bands flanked by flowers; the bezel in two panels, each with a reserved standing figure, a female saint in floor-length robe; Virgin Mary on the left panel holding infant Jesus; St Catherine supporting her attribute, a wheel. 6.17 grams, 21.27 mm overall, 16.93 x 17.98 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N, USA 6 1/2, Europe 13.72, Japan 13)



From a South London family collection of religious artefacts formed in the late 1970s to mid 1980s; thence by descent. 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 search certificate number no.13032-247895.

This type of ring has been found in England, Scotland, Ireland and therefore appears to originate from the English regions, or from the territories under English domination. For the identification and use of these so-called iconographic finger rings and further parallels, you can see two detailed comparative examples in the Koch Collection. Many of these iconographic rings also had engraved love inscriptions, although not in our case. These finger rings differ only slightly in ring shape and decoration, but vary in the depictions of saints.

A heater-shaped with pierced lug above; gilded with punched dots and incised lines motif. 6.72 grams, 44 mm



From the private collection of the late Graham Slater (1927-2024), Cambridge, UK, acquired 1980s-1990s.