Massive Silver Merchant Ring

Merchant rings have a fascinating history dating back to about the 14th century. They were distinctive seals and marks that were identified with guilds or specific professions. These insignias were then cast, chased or engraved into a ring. Usually worn by those not entitled to wear a coat of arms, these seals were most often associated with businesses and trades. Many trades wielded great power not unlike many of our modern day trade unions.

Most often worn as rings, the bearer was then immediately recognized, as well as having the dual purpose of "signing" important letters and documents. Hot wax was dripped onto parchment and the ring's insignia was then impressed into the molten substance. Rings of this type flourished during the 16th century and some were still in use in the 17th century. This ring appears to be an 18th or early 19th century version of an earlier ring.

At the top the imagery symbolizes the “Agnus Dei” or lamb of God, and on each side the initials "C” and “M" appear. Beneath is a crest of the head of a horned bull or steer flanked by scrolls. On the shoulders are fluted columns and a type of head or gargoyle with reeded banding underneath. Certainly this must relate to the livestock or butcher's trade.

The ring measures an august 11/16 of an inch width by 13/16 of an inch high and 1/4 of an inch off the finger deep (1.7 cm wide by 2 cm high and 0.7 cm off the finger). In good condition; wear to the top with some surface scratches (now worn smooth) and overall wear inside and out; wear to the sides with softening of the imagery; evidence of the ring being sized at some point. Weighty at 25 grams, it is of solid cast construction. Size US 8-1/4 (UK Q; Euro 18.5; 58 mm). Can be sized to fit most. Naive workmanship with a wonderful character and feel.