For Easter, the archaeology Keeper’s Corner looks at a beautiful medieval gold ring.
Found near Wing, and dating to 1300-1500 AD, it shows the origin of the Christian Easter story – Jesus Christ crucified. It also has a larger figure above him – presumably meant to represent God. Christianity was a central part of life in medieval England, and wearing religious jewellery demonstrated both your devotion to God, as well as your personal wealth. Whilst jewellery was common for both men and women, the fact that this ring is in gold, rather than gilded (gold plated) silver, or even bronze, shows the wealth of the original owner.
Although the carving on this ring may look a little crude, it is important to bear in mind that this is absolutely tiny – the whole design is only about 1cm long – and of course, would have been carved by hand.
Come and see the ring on display in the archaeology gallery in the museum (to the right of the Lenborough Hoard).
