ADVENT FIVE GOLD RINGS

Advent Calendar Day 5

 

   

Gold finger rings from a hoard found near Thame, Oxfordshire

Five medieval gold rings, found with 10 silver groats near the River Thame in 1940

The hoard was found by a couple walking their dog just north of Thame, in Oxfordshire. Something shining amongst dredged material from a tributary of the river caught the man's eye, and as he investigated further he discovered the hoard of medieval rings and coins.

One of the most distinctive pieces in the hoard is a reliquary ring. It features a double-armed cross of amethyst as the central motif and the cover can be removed to reveal a cavity that would  once have contained a relic. On the back is an engraved and enamelled scene from the Crucifixion.

Three of the other gold rings are set with stones that were thought to provide protection against ailments; these are peridot, turquoise and a toadstone. The fifth ring is engraved with flowers and a romantic motto in French, 'tout pour vous' (all for you).

Gold finger rings from a hoard found near Thame, Oxfordshire
c. 1300–​​​1500
AN1940.228

See them on display in the England 400–1600 Gallery