Jewellery, Watches, Antiquities and Objects of Vertu

A medieval gold hoop brooch, early-mid 13th century, the obverse with engraved chevron decoration, the reserve inscribed ‘AVE NARIA GRA’ (sic) in Lombardic capitals, each letter within an indented rectangular panel, diameter 15mm. £2,000-£3,000

This piece was discovered in Lincolnshire. It is recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database, ref: NLM-B0D659 and has been disclaimed as treasure, ref: 2018-T548.

The inscription is a reduction of ‘Ave Maria gratia plena’ - Hail Mary full of grace, a popular medieval inscription. In this case, its position on the reverse of the brooch indicates a private rather than public expression of devotion.