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Details
A late 14th early 15th century gold band ring
The exterior engraved with three Tau crosses evenly spaced with tear drop of blood between each, circa 1500
The exterior engraved with three Tau crosses evenly spaced with tear drop of blood between each, circa 1500
Provenance
Found at Adisham Kent
Further details
The symbol of the tau cross was early esteemed as a sacred symbol and was considered to be a mark placed on the forehead as mentioned in the Bible, Ezekiel IX. It was thought to protect the wearer from various ailments. For further reading c.f. J.Evans, "Magical Jewels of the Middle Ages and Renaissance Particularly in England", Oxford, 1922, p. 134.
Sale room notice
Please note that this was ring was submitted to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and was disclaimed by the Crown. Ref. 2011 T131