A Medieval gold posy ring, early 14th century, with rectangular cross section hoop, the exterior finely engraved with Lombardic script ‘+.DE:LI:PENSEZ:PAR:KI:MEAVEZ’ translating as ‘Think of him by whom you have me’, with plain interior, ring size very approximately T - W (band oval).

£4,000-£5,000

This ring was found by a metal detectorist in August 2021 at Ravensworth in North Yorkshire. It has been recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database ref: DUR-4301BA and disclaimed as Treasure.

The ring was found close to Ravensworth Castle, which was visited by King John in 1201 and was home to the 1st Baron FitzHugh. In 1391 he enclosed 200 acres, creating a park. The castle is now a ruin.

Sir Henry FitzHugh received his title of Baron in 1321, he was the son of Sir Hugh FitzHenry. The family seat was Ravensworth Castle in North Yorkshire.

Comparisons:
For a similar inscription, ‘DE LI PENCET PAR KI MA VET’ translating as ‘Think of him from whom you had me’, see Joan Evans: English Posies and Posy Rings: pub. Andrew Schuller, 2012; (1931,2) Collections de feu M. le Baron Pichon, Objects Antiques, du Moyen Age, de la Renaissance etc. Paris 1897, Sale Catalogue.


The Portable Antiquities Scheme database ref HAMP-14F3E5, Treasure no. 2021T260 records a medieval posy ring with an inscription ‘+DELVI:PENSEZ.PAR.kISVI:SI+ (DE LVI PENSEZ PAR kI SVI SI’, translating as ‘Think of him by whom I am here’.