Anglo-Saxon period silver vortex spiral finger ring

Code: 11286

This is an intact and very desirable Anglo Saxon period silver finger ring, dating to the 6th - 9th century A.D. It is a well-known type, with a magical spiral bezel. Formed from a single strip of silver expertly wrought into an elaborate spiral design. Rings of the 'Vortex Spiral' type are known in bronze, silver, and gold. Dated to the 5th - 9th century, through the excavation of early Saxon settlement sites in England. It is thought that such finger rings were worn either as a symbol of marriage or more likely by a 'spiritual medium', healer or Seiðr (a 'Seer'). Interestingly most examples are found in Saxon 'Pagan' contexts, being pre-Christian. It is thought that such spirals are a metaphor for the 'spun' or entwined 'fates' of man, wrought into a visual aid for teaching or for focused meditation. Further examples have been recorded from Bulford in Wiltshire SUSS-7DA37C, Dingley in Northamptonshire NARC-3AE845 and Brixton Deverill in Wiltshire WILT-9D4288.
Today this ring has survived in excavated but wearable condition, will make a unique ring for contemporary wear.

OBJECT: Finger Ring

CULTURE: Anglo Saxon / Germanic

DATE: c. 6th - 9th century A.D.

MATERIAL: Silver

RING SIZE:  10 1/2 (US)     U 1/2  (UK)

SIZE: 23.60mm x 23.18mm 1.35mm (bezel 11.17mm x 9.98mm x 2.97mm)

WEIGHT: 2.1 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. European Private Collection. Norway.