Medieval Gold Epigraphic Christ Finger Ring

Circa 1400 AD. A gold finger ring with flat-section hoop and concave disc bezel bearing the engraved image of Christ's face on a hatched background; on the outer face, between vinescroll motifs, the text +IESUS NAZARENUS in Lombardic script and on the inner face in similar script CASPAR * MELCHIOR * BALTAS'. Gold, 4.33 grams, 21.3 mm overall (approximate size British Q 1/2, USA 8 1/2, Europe 18.4, Japan 18). From an important collection of Christian artefacts formed in the 1970's and 1980's; the property of a City Gentleman. The names on the inner face are those of the three Magi in the story of the nativity.

Very fine condition, large and wearable. Excessively rare.