Medieval Very Rare Scorpio Ring – Superb Museum-Quality...

Wear piece of history, not just jewerly Very Rare Medieval Scorpio Ring – Superb Museum-Quality Anulus Amuleticus – Powerful Talismanic & Apotropaic Symbolism – ca. 11th–15th Century AD Object Type: Amuletic Finger Ring (Anulus Amuleticus) Culture: Medieval European Period: Medieval Period, ca. 11th–15th Century AD Material: Metal Alloy Technique: Cast and Hand-Finished; Incised Engraving Form: Massive Open-Ended Hoop with Raised Bosses and Expanded Decorated Sections Decoration: Repeated Scorpion (Scorpio) Figures, Geometric Signs and Linear Motifs Iconography: Scorpio — Scorpion; Astrological and Talismanic Imagery Symbolism: Protection, Healing and Apotropaic Power Stylistic Context: Medieval Astrological and Talismanic Jewellery Tradition Condition: Very Well-Preserved; Strong Patina, Surface Deposits and Clearly Visible Engraved Motifs Dimensions: Ring height : 25.51 mm ± Outer diameter : 24.02 mm ± Inner diameter : 18.20-21:00 mm ± Weight: 9.41 g Ring Size Conversion Chart EU: 57–66 US: 8–11½ UK: P½–W A Cultural and Iconographic Assessment Certificate can be requested in PDF format prior to dispatch, every shipment is fully insured, the photographs were taken under warm, museum-inspired lighting to present the object's surface and historical character naturally, and any cords, attachment rings or other accessories visible in the images serve exclusively as display aids and are not included with the artefact. Description This extraordinary medieval finger ring is distinguished by its exceptionally substantial construction and an extensive program of incised decoration. The broad hoop expands into a powerful upper section articulated by raised bosses and numerous individually engraved devices, several of which display the characteristic morphology of the scorpion (scorpio), with a central body, projecting limbs and an emphasized tail-like element. The scorpion occupied a particularly intriguing position within medieval visual and talismanic culture. Medieval jewellery demonstrates that Scorpio could function not merely as an animal image, but within the intertwined traditions of protection, healing and astrological symbolism. A notable early-15th-century ring preserved by the V&A incorporates a scorpion intaglio and is discussed in connection with protection from poison and healing associations; medieval scholarship likewise places scorpion-bearing rings among astrological and protective sigilla. This background gives the repeated imagery on the present ring particular significance. Rather than a single isolated emblem, the surface appears to carry a sequence of scorpion-like and geometric signs, transforming the hoop itself into a continuous symbolic field. Such imagery may be considered within the medieval concept of the anulus amuleticus—a ring whose ornament could carry an apotropaic or talismanic dimension. Medieval scorpion amulets are independently documented, including an 11th–13th-century example in the Louvre. The construction is equally remarkable. Its massive hoop, open terminals, raised bosses and deeply worked decoration give the object an almost architectural character. The irregularity of the engraved devices and surviving traces of working reinforce the impression of individually executed decoration rather than standardized ornament. The metal preserves a rich dark brown surface with green patination, mineral deposits and localized reddish tones. Despite its age and evident wear, the principal engraved motifs remain remarkably visible, giving the ring an exceptionally powerful archaeological presence. On stylistic and iconographic grounds, the object may be situated within the broader Medieval European tradition, while a narrower date should remain dependent upon physical and comparative examination. Its monumental form and repeated Scorpio imagery make it a highly unusual example of the medieval anulus, bringing together personal adornment, signum, astrological imagery and the apotropaic world of the anulus amuleticus. Information The presentation and sale of this object are conducted in accordance with principles of transparency, scholarly consistency, and good faith, and no object is knowingly presented as a copy or imitation. The object has been documented using high-resolution imaging equipment, with its physical structure and form left entirely unaltered; only limited color-balance adjustments have been applied to ensure visual accuracy. As high-resolution imagery may influence the perception of scale, the photographs should always be considered together with the stated measurements. All statements concerning dating, intended function, symbolic or iconographic interpretation, and material identification represent high-probability academic assessments based on typological analysis, comparative examples from museum collections, and expert opinion; definitive verification would require advanced laboratory analysis beyond the scope of the sales process. Upon request prior to shipment, a signed ownership document issued in the buyer’s name, together with an independent expert evaluation report, may also be provided in PDF format.

Estimate:£126.76

View all items fromCatawikiorAncient Art