Jewellery, Watches and Objects of Vertu

An early Medieval gold and emerald stirrup-shaped ring, circa 12th century, the hoop of D-shaped cross section, the small oval cabochon emerald within pear-shaped collet setting in raised tapering mount, within an octagonal-shaped bezel, the shoulders of reeded channelled design, ring size M½. £2,000-£3,000

This ring was found by a detectorist in East Hampshire.

The ring is recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database, Ref: HAMP-268707, and has subsequently been disclaimed as Treasure.

Although referred to as ‘stirrup rings’, a name given in the 19th century comparing their shape to a horse’s stirrup, this form of Medieval ring actually reflects the pointed arch used in the monumental architecture of the Medieval Gothic period. The simple examples reflect the ogive arches utilised in Gothic cathedrals, exemplified by the chevet of St. Denis, evolving into more complex designs, such as this, with polygonal sections.

Literature:
Hindman, S. et al., Towards an Art History of Medieval Rings: A Private Collection, (Paul Holberton, London, 2014).