Finger Ring Collection
Browse Collection
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England
Late 16th century
Gold signet ring, the oval bezel engraved with a coat of arms with three animals impaling a chevron between three owls within a pearl border
8.8 g weight
Bought in London
Presented by Dr C.D.E. Fortnum in honour of Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, 1897; WA1897.CDEF.F604
Taylor and Scarisbrick, Finger Rings from Ancient Egypt to the present day, 1978, no. 610
Signet ring: The signet ring has been used to seal business and legal documents since Egyptian times. A variety of devices were employed to distinguish the owner of each seal. From the early 14th century, heraldic shields were in use in Italy, England and France for those entitled to them. In the 15th century a badge and motto was preferred. Merchants or craftsmen who did not bear a coat of arms would use a merchant