Art Funded by you

Medieval iconographic finger-ring

Unknown artist, late 15th–early 16th century

This gold finger-ring is decorated with religious imagery and is an important survival of the Medieval prayer ring, used as a focus for devotion. Its five integrally cast bezels are each engraved with symbols of the Passion of Christ: the cross with a scourge and palm frond; the crown of thorns with a pierced heart; a column with a lance and a sponge on a staff; pliers with a hammer; and three dice (symbolising the division of Christ's robe). It is a valuable record of the proliferation of Passion imagery and prayer in daily life during the late Middle Ages prior to the Reformation and its discovery in the Epping Forest District is particularly significant in the context of Waltham Abbey's importance as a religious centre during this period.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Medieval iconographic finger-ring, late 15th–early 16th century

Date supported

2006

Medium and material

Gold

Dimensions

Diameter: 2.2 cm

Grant

1000

Total cost

2500

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

Art Funded by you FAQs

Why is this object record marked 'archive'?
Where can I see this work of art? Is it on display?
What is Art Fund's purpose?
How is Art Fund funded?
What type of funding do you offer?
What does the acquisition grants programme support and who can apply?
How many works of art has Art Fund helped museums to acquire?
I’m a curator/researcher/arts professional and would like to find out more about this work, how do I get in touch?
I’m a journalist and would like to contact Art Fund about this work, how do I get in touch?
I would like to donate a work of art to a museum. What do I need to do?
I'd like to leave a gift to Art Fund in my will. How can I do this?

Contact us

If you have a question about a work of art in our archive, please contact the Programmes team. We’ll be happy to answer your enquiry.