Signet Ring
c. 1475–c. 1500
Medium
Gold
Dimensions
Diam.: 2 cm (3/4 in.)
Classification
ring (jewelry)
Department
Applied Arts of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
229963
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This large gold ring is engraved with an aristocratic heraldic emblem, a rampant (rearing) lion offset with a circle of beading. When pressed into sealing wax poured on documents or letters, the negative (intaglio) image of the lion produced a positive impression, meant to signify the office or identity of the author. Signet rings like this were used by civic officials or bourgeoning merchants as an expression of political allegiance. They were also worn by members of the aristocratic family who...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...