Renaissance Silver Gilt Fede Ring

The history of the fede or “clasped hands” ring goes back far into antiquity. In Roman times this type of ring was often referred to as Concordia— for Concord, the goddess of harmony who was worshiped as the bringer of marital harmony. Consequently this concept was used for a marriage ring. From the 12th through the 17th centuries it was a fairly common form of marriage ring and occasionally employed as a ring that connoted friendship. Most were in silver or silver gilt, few in gold. The motif is seen again in the 19th century and still found today.

In this instance, the flaming heart is embraced by two hands. Only a suggestion of the heart is apparent as evidenced by the three peaks at the top. Note the more masculine hand to the right clasping the smaller feminine hand to the left. Of interest as well are the trefoil designs emulating cuffs.

The ring is fire gilded silver as was common for the time. Fire gilding leaves a surface of gold with unmatched color and great durability over time. Clues to dating this type of ring lie in part to the style and expression of the hands as well as to the cuff designs.

Condition: Very good for its age. Light wear to the fire gilding with faint silver showing through at the high points with a bit more on the back of the shank. Some light black scratching on the back (see photo); some wear to the incised design at the sides after the cuff design. Overall this antique ring is intact and very fine. The patina is warm and gold color is buttery.

Measurements: Width is 3/8 of an inch (1 cm) at the widest and 3/16 of an inch (0.4 cm) at the back. This antique ring has a weight of 5 grams.

Size: US 8-3/4 (UK R; Euro 18.75, 59 mm) and due to its age and gilding we do not recommend sizing.

Date: Circa 1650

Note: For similar examples please refer to plate 54 in Charles Oman's "British Rings 800-1014".