Excellent Moors Head Medieval Bronze Signet Ring c. 14th - 15th century A.D.

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Excellent Moors Head Medieval Bronze Signet Ring c. 14th - 15th century A.D. :
$298.40

This is a fabulous medieval signet ring, dating to the 14th - 15th century A.D. The bezel is cut with an image of a Moor\'s head, associated at this time with with victories during the Crusades. The ring is likely to have belonged to a merchant who traded with the East and the Mediterranean. It was excavated in France, but would have been clearly owned by a Christian, since Islamic merchants were not permitted to have any graven images of men on their rings. During the medieval period \'Moors heads\' were used in heraldry and as insignia of the Hohenstaufan dynasty, which ruled the Holy Roman Empire. Frederick II (1194–1250), king of Sicily, took a keen interest in the black Muslim population that had remained in Sicily after the island\'s return to Christian rule in 1061. He established an enclave for these Muslims near his palace in Lucera in southern Italy, and recruited his musicians and elite bodyguard from the community. This ring has survived to us in perfect condition, complete with a wonderful deep olive green patina. It can still be worn and used again today.

OBJECT:Finger Ring

CULTURE:Medieval

DATE:c. 14th - 15th century A.D.

MATERIAL:Bronze

RING SIZE:8(US)Q(UK)

SIZE:22.67mm x 23.10mm x 2.59mm (bezel 10.39mm x 14.40mm x 2.77mm)

WEIGHT:4.5 grams

This item is guaranteed authentic and dates to the period described. A written guarantee can be provided on request. We accept returns if you are not satisfied with your purchase.

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