ENGLISH OR FRENCH, 13TH CENTURY

Ring brooches were an indispensable part of mediaeval dress, functioning both as ornament and, often, as a clasp to hold together the neck of a cloak or tunic. The present example is particularly rich in its materials. The inscription can be translated as 'I am here in place of a friend'.

A letter from The British Museum on behalf of the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport accompanies the lot noting that the Crown's interest in this object has been disclaimed.