Provenance and authenticity documentation available for every piece.
Medieval Silver Serpent-Amulet Ring with Sunburst Seal – “Serapis” (12th–14th c. AD) – EU 62 / US 10
Material:
Era:
- Medieval
Rarity:
Description
A rare medieval silver ring formed from a tapering spiral band that terminates in a stylized serpent head engraved with herringbone lines and drilled eye-marks. Opposite the serpent sits a circular seal disc decorated with a sunburst of radiating spokes and punched dots. The combination of serpent and sunburst motifs reflects a blend of protective and symbolic functions typical of provincial medieval workshops in Central and Eastern Europe.
Details
Material: Silver
Date: Medieval, 12th–14th Century AD
Ring Size: EU 62 / US 10
Provenance: Private Belgian collection, acquired in the 1960s
Unique Identifier: R-67-S
Condition: Very good medieval condition with stable patina and clearly preserved motifs
Restoration and Authenticity
This ring has been lightly cleaned and carefully restored to ensure it is stable and suitable for wear while preserving its authentic medieval character. A Certificate of Authenticity is included.
Historical Context
Serpent rings in medieval Europe were associated with vigilance, healing, and protective magic, while sunburst patterns appear on seals, brooches, and amulets as symbols of divine light and good fortune. Rings combining both motifs were personal talismans rather than formal administrative tools, reflecting the deeply symbolic jewellery traditions of the 12th–14th centuries. This example fits well within the wider European practice of merging simple geometric seal designs with apotropaic animal imagery.
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: 62
The US size of this ring is: 10
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.