22-carat gold ring with three oval medallions... Lot 26

22-carat gold ring with three oval medallions on three facets, each engraved with a religious "iconographic" design. The central medallion depicts a Nativity scene with the Adoration of the Magi, the three kings on the right and Mary seated on the left with Joseph carrying Baby Jesus in the center. The two side medallions probably depict Saint John and Saint Christopher. Plain inside. Good condition. Probably England, 15th century. Weight : 8.04 g. TDD : 53. (A spectrometer test indicated a predominantly 22 ct gold content, with a very low silver and copper titration). Related works Similar rings are in the V A Museum, London, inv. 689-1871, M.192-1975, M.212-1975. History Rings are the most common type of medieval jewelry. They were worn by both sexes, at all levels of society, in gold, silver and less expensive metals such as brass or bronze. Portraits from this period show that several were sometimes worn on each finger. Rings adorned with religious figures and inscriptions were worn both as a sign of public recognition of the Christian faith and because they were believed to offer protection against earthly and spiritual dangers, like talismans. This ring depicting the Nativity was probably given as a Christmas gift, and is decorated with popular medieval saints: Christopher, protector of travelers, John and the figures of the Three Kings. These multi-faceted rings are generally thought to be English. Sancy expertise Paris