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Medieval Bronze Signet Ring with Shield Bezel – “Scutum” (12th–14th century AD) – EU 57 / US 8
€200,00
Material:
Era:
- Medieval
Rarity:
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Description
A cast bronze signet ring of the High Medieval period with a prominent shield shaped bezel rising slightly above the shoulders. The hoop is plain and rounded, tapering gradually toward the reverse. The face of the bezel is now worn smooth, though it likely once carried an engraved symbol used for sealing wax impressions, or may have been left blank for later personal engraving. The form reflects the heraldic language of the medieval period, where shield shapes served as visual markers of identity and authority. The surface retains an archaeological patina consistent with age and long use.
Details
Material: Bronze
Date: Medieval, 12th–14th century AD
Ring Size: EU 57 / US 8
Provenance: Belgian private collection, acquired before 1960s
Unique Identifier: R-172-B
Condition: Good, with worn bezel surface and stable patina consistent with age
Restoration and Authenticity
This piece is preserved in its untouched state, showing natural aging and patina from centuries of burial and wear. For those who prefer a refreshed look, a professional restoration service is available, reviving original detail while respecting historical integrity.
If you’d like to book a restoration, simply add the restoration option along with your order or book it as the additional product in my shop.
A Certificate of Authenticity is included.
Historical Context
During the medieval period, signet rings were essential instruments of authentication across Europe. The shield form directly reflects the heraldic culture that dominated medieval visual identity, where personal devices and family symbols were displayed on shields, seals, and banners. Even individuals outside the highest nobility used such rings to validate letters, trade documents, and agreements. Bronze examples were widely worn by merchants, clerics, and minor officials, providing both a practical sealing tool and a symbol of personal authority within medieval society.
Care
To maintain the beauty and integrity of your purchase, we recommend treating it with care. Simple maintenance practices, such as gentle washing and proper storage, can effectively preserve the longevity of your favorites. We encourage you to refer to the care instructions included with each item, designed to help you keep your purchase in top condition.
Authenticity
Each artifact we offer has been carefully examined by qualified professionals to ensure its authenticity. Our assessment considers historical style, craftsmanship, materials, and the wider typology of comparable pieces.
Because historical scholarship evolves, we offer a lifelong authenticity guarantee: if two independent, accredited laboratories ever determine that an item is not genuine, we will refund you in full.
What size is this ring?
The EU size of this ring is: 57
The US size of this ring is: 8
You can find information about ring sizes and how to determine your own, here.
Delivery Times & Processing
We prepare and ship most orders within 2–5 business days.
Delivery times depend on your location:
- EU orders: usually arrive within 1–5 business days.
- Non-EU orders: shipping typically takes 3–14 business days once dispatched.
- Export documents: Some antiquities require official export paperwork before shipping, which can take 2–8 weeks depending on the item and the issuing authority.
All orders are fully insured and you will receive tracking information as soon as your shipment is on its way.