MEDIEVAL SILVER INTAGLIO SEAL RING - “Lion and Cross”
Byzantine or Medieval Italy , Circa 13th - 14th Century AD
Ring Size: US 8 1/2 - Weight: 14.28 gm
An attractive medieval intaglio seal ring consisting of a heavy decorated band with an elaborately shaped bezel. The bezel displays a skillfully carved image of a lion striding right bearing a cross.
The ring form was cast in one piece using the “cire perdue” or lost-wax process. The final shape was finished by hand and the band design and bezel were hand-carved. This ring is in an excellent state of preservation, showing a pleasing surface effect with toned patina
The Signet, or Seal Ring, was significant in Roman and Medieval society, as it was used in validating serious legal documents by its owner. Intaglios, and engraved or intaglio-cut gems could serve as seals, even while appearing decorative. Cicero mentions them, and Pliny cites that the fashion of wearing signet rings eventually shifted to the little finger. A signet ring was highly representative of the individual who wore it. It was, in effect, his or her signature.
Provenance: private midwestern US collection, ex London Art Market/ Martin Gallery (1998).
