High Carat Gold Fede Ring.
England or Western Europe, 17th–18th century.
Ring size R 1/2 UK / 8.75 US / 59 EU.
Weight: 4 grams.
Description
A high carat gold fede ring, the bezel formed as a pair of clasped hands finely modelled in low relief, symbolising trust, fidelity, and contractual union. The hands are articulated with tapering fingers and subtly defined cuffs. Flanking the bezel, the shoulders are set with rectangular panels embellished with scrolling motifs framed by delicate wirework borders. The band is plain and rounded, displaying the lightly planished surfaces and handmade irregularities typical of period goldsmithing.
Context
The fede motif derives from the medieval formula mani in fede (“hands in trust”), a visual expression of loyalty and binding agreement. Rings of this type circulated widely from the late medieval period onward, gaining particular prominence in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries as betrothal jewels embodying steadfast commitment. The present example, with its restrained decorative scheme and high gold purity, reflects the enduring appeal of intimate, symbolically charged jewels rooted in long-standing marital and devotional customs.
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