Medieval Bird Intaglio Signet Ring
Remarkable cast brass signet ring dating from the late Medieval period. The shoulders are grooved and the face is carved with a stylised bird, possibly a swan, formed from straight lines. The form, reminiscent of a stirrup ring but with a flat rectangular face, is unusual but similar to a sketch in T.N. Pollo's (excellent) book Ancient Rings: An Illustrated Collector's Guide (2018, p91).
Of avian and zoomorphic designs, Pollo states (p124):
"This jewelry is referred to collectively as the "Animal Style," and encompasses a range of artistic designs developed among earlier Eurasian cultures, including the Celts, Anglo-Saxons and Migration Period Germanic tribes. These designs were prevalent throughout medieval Europe, and remained a popular heraldic device into the Renaissance and early Modern Periods... Medieval avian designs were often stylized and highly abstract; and it is not always clear what bird is depicted; nor even if the image is a bird at all."
Era: Late Medieval, 15th century
Ring size: S or 9 US. Not resizable
Head size: 9.7mm by 10.1mm
Marks: None, base metal
Condition: Good, wear consistent with age
Full appraisal document provided with each item
This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable)
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
Shipping
Express shipping is free of charge and carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
UPS Express (International)
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£35 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
Leave a note at checkout with your desired size
Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
A 25% deposit will be taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved, often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
More Questions?
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alex@lostowl.jewelry
An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 2-3 weeks to shipping times
Add a note in the cart* with your desired size and/or inscription
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