A Fine Medieval Finger-Ring set with a Cabochon Garnet

Epoque: Early 15th Century

Origine: Europe

Medium: Garnet, gold

Provenance: Ex Private English collection 
Ex Private collection

Literature: A medieval gold ring set with an oval cabochon garnet in a raised, box-shaped bezel. The bezel is bordered by a delicate pseudo-beaded wire edge and slightly elevated above the hoop, accentuating the deep red stone whose surface retains its ancient polish. The ring’s slender, rounded band slightly thickens at the shoulders, where it meets the square bezel in a refined architectural junction characteristic of early 15th century craftsmanship. Rings of this type were widely worn across Europe during the later Middle Ages, serving both as personal adornment and as symbols of fidelity or devotion. The simplicity of the mount reflects the restrained elegance of Gothic design at its zenith. 
     A similar pseudo-beaded wire edging is observed on the gold box bezel of a ring from the 14th century Colmar Treasure (Musée National du Moyen Âge, Paris, Cl.20669) and a medieval gold box bezel ring featuring the same type of single-grooved band was discovered near Tydd Saint Mary, Lincolnshire (Portable Antiquities Scheme record: LIN-9E1041).