This silver fede ring dating to the 14th century, its clasped-hands motif worked into the hoop and paired with the engraved inscription IESVS (“Jesus”). Fede rings get their name from the Italian mani in fede, or “hands in faith,” and the joined hands were used in medieval Europe as an emblem of trust, loyalty, and marriage. Here the devotional inscription adds another layer: the name of Jesus turns the ring into something more than a token between two people. Worn on the body, it also functioned as an expression of Christian faith and protection.
hoop engraved IESVS (JESUS)
MATERIALS: silver
AGE: 14th century
CONDITION: Very good - minor surface wear and oxidation commensurate with age and use
SIZE: 9, cannot be resized; 6.5mm head, 3.2mm shank