Georgian Gold Mourning Ring with Opening Clasped Hands

拍品描述

Dated 14th December 1774 A.D. Formed of a wide band with faux-ropework borders and plaited brown hair, hinged outer cover with the locking mechanism formed as two clasping hands, three circular openings with decorative cuts on each arm; inside engraved with 'Dbre 14/74'. Cf. Chadour, A.B., Rings. The Alice and Louis Koch Collection, volume I, Leeds, 1994, item 759, for type. 8.44 grams, 24.71 mm overall, 17.09 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N, USA 6 1/2, Europe 13.72, Japan 13) (1 in.). [No Reserve] [A video of this lot is available to view on TimeLine Auctions Website] From the old family collection of a West Country, UK, lady; acquired by descent from her grandfather circa 2001. This ring features the ancient fede motif of two hands clasped together. These symbols represented love and fidelity. The ring was likely a token of love symbolising everlasting devotion, or possibly a betrothal ring. The motif of the two clasped hands was already in use in ancient Rome, as a symbol of pledging of vows, which derives from the Roman dextarum iunctio (right hand joined). Fede rings remained popular throughout Europe until well into the 19th century. TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists. See our website for more information.

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