Post Medieval Lead Musket Ball Group

Comprising a wide hoop, the shoulders with rectangular panels embellished with scrolling motifs framed by delicate wirework borders, the bezel formed as a pair of clasped hands, finely modelled in low relief, symbolising trust, fidelity, and contractual union, the hands articulated with tapering fingers and subtly defined cuffs. 4.08 grams, 21.08 mm overall, 18.89 mm internal diameter (approximate size British R, USA 8 1/2, Europe 18 3/4, Japan 18)



Acquired on the European art market.

The fede motif derives from the medieval formula mani in fede ('hands in trust'), a visual expression of loyalty and binding agreement. Rings of this type circulated widely from the late medieval period onward, gaining particular prominence in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries as betrothal jewels embodying steadfast commitment. The present example, with its restrained decorative scheme and high gold purity, reflects the enduring appeal of intimate, symbolically charged jewels rooted in long-standing marital and devotional customs.

Modelled in a half-seated pose, gazing upwards with compact body, broad forequarters, the mane rendered in long, parallel strands; the tail emerging from underneath the body and resting diagonally on top of the neck. 855 grams, 96 mm



Acquired on the European art market.

The treatment reflects the continuation of late Gothic conventions within German workshops, while also aligning with the more classicising tendencies found in North Italian bronze production of the period. The anatomical structure is simplified yet purposeful, characteristic of functional or cabinet bronzes produced across central Europe in the sixteenth century. Its scale and form correspond to small bronzes intended for Kunstkammer settings or as elements within larger composite objects such as inkstands or caskets, where the lion served as an emblem of vigilance, authority, and learned taste.

Comprising a fluted band with openwork shoulders set with facetted rock crystals, rub-over setting engraved with floral motifs on the reverse and set with a red carnelian intaglio carved with the coat of arms of the owner; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 5.64 grams, 24.89 mm overall, 21.56 x 17.76 mm internal diameter (approximate size British U, USA 10, Europe 22.52, Japan 21)



Acquired on the European art market.