Medieval Silver Bird Ring

Date: c. 15th - 16th CenturyWeight: 4.26 gramsSize: 7.5 (U.S.) / O 1/2 (U.K.)  History of the Artifact Dated to the 15th-16th century, this silver ring features a flat discoid bezel framed by an incised border. At its center is a stylized bird, rendered in profile with wings raised and head turned backward—a posture known as regardant. This pose, though uncommon in later heraldry, often conveyed alertness, vigilance, or introspection in earlier iconography. The bird’s form is intentionally abstract, but its curved beak, rounded body, and upright stance evoke avian motifs found in late medieval and early modern personal seals. While it may represent no specific species, birds in general carried varied symbolic meanings during the period, ranging from freedom and the soul to watchfulness and divine message-bearing. The simplicity of the engraving and overall form suggests the ring likely belonged to a person of modest status, yet it remains a compelling example of vernacular craftsmansh