Tudor Gold Posy Ring "THE DESRING HART HATHE NO REST"

Code: 10121

This is a wonderful and rare Tudor gold posy ring, inscribed inside the band with "THE DESRING HART HATHE NO REST". The style of lettering in Roman capitals (gives us an early date) of around 1520 - 1550. The inscription is very interesting, as it has not been recorded in the published books of Posies by Joan Evans. The meaning of "the desiring heart will have no rest" (in my opinion) would suggest the giver have been desiring after the receiver - who's heart could not rest until the love was reciprocated (like King Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn around this period).  

The ring is in excellent condition, it has a nice patina (bloom) to the gold, with very faint traces of decoration to the outer band (much worn). Such a ring would have been worn as a wedding band, as was the English custom. This will make for a unique and historic wedding ring today!

OBJECT: POSY RING

CULTURE:  TUDOR

DATE: c. 1520 - 1550

MATERIAL: GOLD 22k +/-

RING SIZE:    6 1/4  (US)     M 1/2 (UK)

SIZE: 18.44mm x 2.69mm 

WEIGHT:  1.49 grams

PROVENANCE:  Ex Essex private collection, Ex. Salesroom