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Antique Gold English "Posy" Band Ring
About the Item
Gold Ring, "Franciscus South miles"
England, 17th century
Gold, traces of enamel
Weight 3.3 gr.; circumference 50.58; US size 5.5; UK size L
Gold band with D-section on the exterior of the hoop engraved with flowers (forget-me-nots, carnations, and daisies). The ring was originally enameled, and traces of black enamel remain. Inside the hoop engraved in italic script "Franciscus South miles" (Franciscus South, knight). Also inside the hoop is a punch in shield form with a capital letter “S." probably a maker’s mark, which remains unidentified. The ring is in good wearable condition.
From the Middle Ages onwards rings bearing a motto or inscription with personal message became ever more popular. Plain gold bands with the name engraved of a loved one or sentimental messages in prose or verse, also known as posy rings were customarily exchanged between friends, relatives and lovers, but also at betrothals and wedding ceremonies. The messages were often concealed inside the hoop and the content only known to the wearer and giver. When worn it was believed the closeness to the skin increased the emotional value and passion. Engraved or in enamel, symbols on the exterior of the hoop, such as here the flowers, would enhance the meaning and the ornamental feature would have had a personal significance for the wearer.
Literature:
The inscription inside the hoop is unusual and possibly refers to the owner or the giver of the ring to a loved one. The name Franciscus South perhaps refers to a knight (or common knight, known as eques auratus in England) recorded in Lincolnshire, England, around the year 1600 and as late as 1625. For a list of posies found on rings, see: Evans, 1931 and Anon., A Garland of Love: A Collection of Posy-Ring Mottoes, London 1907. For general information on the wearing of posy rings, see: Dalton 1912, pp. 174 ff.; Scarisbrick 2007, pp. 74 ff., Taylor and Scarisbrick 1978, and Oman 1974, pp. 39 ff.
- Ring Size:5.5 US, Not Resizable
- Metal:
- Weight:3.3 g
- Place of Origin:
- Period:17th Century
- Date of Manufacture:17th century
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Chicago, IL
- Reference Number:
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Chicago, IL
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 3 days of delivery.
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