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Directory: Antiques: Decorative Art: Jewelry: Pre 1700: Item # 1430282

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Moylan-Smelkinson/The Spare Room
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P.O. Box 4684
Baltimore, Maryland 21212
tel. 410-435-3738

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Poesy rings were popular in England and France during the 16th through the 17th centuries as lover's gifts. The quotations were often from courtship stories and are usually inscribed on the inner surface of the ring as is the case in this one. This ring amusingly reads "A virtuous Wife Preferreth Life". We imagine that in the 17th century, a woman was indeed better off being virtuous! We think this could make a more unusual and unique wedding band than a gold band. As all gold jewelry in England was required to be 18K up until the 19th century, this one is indeed 18K. The shield hallmark was a typical 17th century hallmark. The ring measures 3/16 wide and is a size 7.