Medieval Silver Seal Ring with Merchant's Mark

Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Medieval silver seal ring with a silvered circular bezel which is finely decorated with a merchant's mark of a geometric and floral design. Plain ring band. Outside diameter: ± 24,7 mm Inside diameter: ± 22 x 19,2 mm Bezel: ± 15,5 mm Condition: Good and solid condition, wearable. A small pinprick-sized hole is present in the bezel, small irregularities and signs of wear consistent with age and use. Certificate of Authenticity (PDF) is available upon request for all lots with a hammer price of €100 or higher. -> Merchant’s marks were distinctive personal or commercial symbols used by merchants throughout medieval and early modern Europe. They appeared on seals, rings, documents, buildings and traded goods, serving as recognisable signatures in a period when literacy was not universal. The designs often combined initials, geometric forms, crosses or motifs connected with the owner’s profession. Unlike formal coats of arms, merchant’s marks were practical identifiers and could be adapted or passed down within a family or trading house. Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been carefully examined for its material and surface characteristics. Laboratory analysis (e.g. XRF) is not routinely undertaken in private collecting, and destructive testing is avoided as it causes permanent damage to archaeological material. Before modern hallmarking, gold and silver alloys varied depending on local resources, recycling practices and economic conditions.

Estimate:£209.87

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