Merovingian Ring with Palm Tree. 6th-8th century A.D. A silver ring with circular hoop, oval bezel incised with a stylised palm-tree, the lower part featuring a stylised human face. Cf. Hadjadj, R., Bagues Merovingiennes - Gaul du Nord, Paris, 2007, item 445 (Moselle or Rhin), for the type. 4.16 grams, 21.46 mm overall,17.35 mm internal diameter (approximate size British M, USA 6, Europe 12.46, Japan 12) (3/4 in.) Early 1990s London collection. Acquired on the UK art market. From a private collection, Lancashire, UK. In early Christian symbology, the palm was linked to a passage from the Psalms, where it is said that as the palm blossoms so will the righteous blossom as well: the palm in fact produces an inflorescence when it seems dead, just as the martyrs will have their reward in heaven. The palm was therefore widely used in personal objects, like rings, amulets, bracelets, and clothing ornaments. [No Reserve]

Fine condition.