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A remarkable post-medieval gold posy ring, believed to date back to the reign of Henry VIII, has been discovered in a Bedfordshire field and is set to be auctioned by Hansons Auctioneers in their Historica and Coin Department. Unearthed in May 2023, the ring is expected to fetch between £4,000 and £6,000 in Hansons’ Summer Fine Art Jewellery, Silver, Watch and Coin Auction this June.
The ring, a rare example of 16th-century craftsmanship, features a triple-banded design adorned with scrolling foliage and petal-like motifs, a highly unusual style for its time. Inside the band, the ring is inscribed with the cryptic motto: ‘Thou now ill / not always’. Auctioneer Charles Hanson suggested this phrase could be interpreted as “thou now sick, not always thus”, a sentiment that may have been intended to comfort a loved one during illness or hardship.
“It may reference a change of heart,” he added, “or a vow of enduring love through difficult times. These mottoes often reflected deeply personal, emotional messages between lovers.” The inscription is written in clear Roman capitals, a script that predates the adoption of italic lettering in the late 16th century, helping to date the ring to the mid-16th century, around the time of Henry VIII’s reign.
Charles Hanson described the ring as a “rare and exciting find”, emphasizing its historical significance and the personal emotions it likely conveyed. “To think this ring was crafted nearly a century before Oliver Cromwell is remarkable,” he said. “It was likely lost in the mid-16th century and remained preserved beneath the earth for nearly 500 years. Its survival in such immaculate condition – untouched by plough or damage – makes it all the more extraordinary.”
Posy rings, derived from the French word for poetry (“poésie”), were popular from the 15th to the 17th centuries. They were often exchanged as tokens of love or betrothal, and their inscriptions typically drew from poetry, scripture, or romantic verse. These rings are now highly collectible, prized not only for their craftsmanship but also for the personal stories and historical context they embody.
The discovery of this ring offers a glimpse into the emotional lives of people during the Tudor period, a time when such rings served as intimate expressions of love, commitment, and reassurance. The motto, though enigmatic, suggests a message of hope and resilience, perhaps intended to uplift the wearer during challenging times.
The ring’s triple-banded design and intricate decoration also highlight the skill and artistry of Tudor goldsmiths, who created pieces that were both beautiful and meaningful. Its survival in such pristine condition after centuries buried in a field is a testament to the durability of gold and the reverence with which such items were treated.
As the ring prepares to go under the hammer, it is likely to attract significant interest from collectors and historians alike. Its unique inscription, rare design, and connection to the Tudor period make it a symbol of enduring love and a tangible link to the past.
Hansons Auctioneers, known for their expertise in historic and rare items, are well-placed to bring this exceptional piece to market. The auction will provide an opportunity for collectors to acquire a piece of history, one that speaks to the romantic and sentimental traditions of the 16th century.
In summary, the discovery of this gold posy ring is a fascinating reminder of the enduring power of love and the craftsmanship of the past. Its inscription, “Thou now ill / not always,” offers a poignant message of hope and perseverance, while its design and condition make it a rare and valuable artifact. As it heads to auction, the ring promises to capture the imagination of collectors and history enthusiasts, preserving its legacy for future generations.
