File:Medieval Incomplete Silver Finger-ring (FindID 619641).jpg

PAS Database number: 2012 T532

Date: 15th century

Discovery: Found on 17/7/12 while using a metal detector during machine-stripping of an archaeological excavation undertaken by Oxford Archaeology East on behalf of English Heritage on the scheduled site of Swavesey Priory. Recorded by Helen Fowler, Finds Liason Officer Cambridgeshire.

Description: Fragment of a silver 'fide' finger-ring with a bezel in the form of two clasped hands. The hoop was made from a strip of metal with the ends soldered together at a butt joint. The hands were soldered on top of the joint, both masking and reinforcing it. Sleeve cuffs and folds are represented by mouldings and grooves.

Dimensions: Internal diameter about 17 mm, width of hoop 5 mm, width at bezel 8 mm.

Discussion: Part of a silver 'fide' (or 'fede') finger-ring with clasped hands on the bezel. In the Roman period the motif of clasped right hands (dextrarum iunctio) represented commitment and faithfulness in all forms of contract; it was occasionally used on finger-rings as a symbol of eternal love, shown either in repoussé on the bezel or on intaglio or cameo settings (Johns 1996, 62-4). It became popular again across Europe in the 15th century, with fide rings being given at the time of betrothal or marriage, the name taken from the Italian le mani in fede (hands in faith/trust). The hands on medieval examples are usually moulded in relief and most are shown with sleeve cuffs; in some cases the hands are surmounted by a crown. The hoop may be plain, decorated with geometric designs or carry a devotional inscription intended as a protective or curative device (Treasure Report 2002, nos 101-2; 2003, no. 193; Wise 2004, 222, no. 19). The same motif was also used on gold brooches (Allason-Jones 2000; Brewer 1930). Despite the association of the Swavesey piece with the Priory, there is no positive evidence that any fide finger-rings were tokens of commitment to a religious order. They occur in a wide range of contexts, both urban and rural. Over fifty examples have been reported under the Portable Antiquities Scheme, and although they are not common on excavated sites, stratified examples come from 15th century domestic contexts at Ely and Norwich, the former silver, the latter gilded copper alloy (PAS database; Mould et al. 2003, 157, fig. 23, 3; Margeson 1993, 5, fig. 1, 4).

This item is more than 300 years old and composed of more than 10% precious metal, and therefore should be considered Treasure under the terms of the Treasure Act 1996

Author: Rachel Clarke, Project Officer (Oxford Archaeology East) citing information supplied by Nina Crummy (freelance Finds Specialist)

Date: 5/6/2013