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Posey Rings

One of the most fascinating and charming types of rings, with a deeply romantic history, is the posey ring. These small but powerful symbols of affection have been a part of jewellery history for centuries 

Antique posey ring

A tiny and remarkable 17th-century fine gold engraved posey ring with very feint traces of green and white enamel, the interior is inscribed "Favor my affection"

What is a Posey Ring?

A posey ring, (sometimes known as a poesy or posy ring), is a type of ring inscribed with a short poem, a sentiment, or a personal motto. These rings were particularly popular during the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance, especially in England and France. The word "posey" is derived from the French word "poésie," meaning poetry. Typically, posey rings are simple bands, often made of gold or silver, featuring engraved messages on the inside or outside of the band. These inscriptions were not just decorative but carried personal significance—sometimes a romantic sentiment, a religious verse, or a meaningful quote. The verse was meant to express the wearer's love, faith, or personal beliefs.

The Rise of Posey Rings

Posey rings first gained popularity in the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries, during the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The tradition is thought to have originated in England, but it spread throughout Europe, especially to France. During this time, there was a strong cultural fascination with poetry, love, and sentimentality. The rings were an intimate form of communication, often used between lovers to express emotions that words alone couldn’t fully capture. These rings were sometimes exchanged between couples, with each person inscribing a poetic message meant for the other. Other times, posey rings were given as gifts to celebrate a special occasion, such as a marriage, engagement, or even the birth of a child. It was common for a posey ring to contain a line or verse from a favourite poem, a religious passage, or a personal vow.

Antique posey ring

This ring forms part of a collection of 760 rings and engraved gems from the collection of Edmund Waterton (1830-87). Waterton was one of the foremost ring collectors of the nineteenth century. The inscription in the inner hoop 'Loyalty not fear' might refer to a lover's hopes but could also refer to a family motto. Although the motto is written in French, the owner may not have been."

Antique posey ring

This ring was formerly part of the collection of Dame Joan Evans (1893-1977), art historian and collector. The inscription on this ring reads 'keep faith till death', an appeal to the wearer and perhaps a reference to the marriage service in which the couple pledge to be faithful until 'death do us part'.

The Significance of the Inscriptions

The inscriptions found on posey rings were often simple and heartfelt. Common phrases included “Amor Vincit Omnia” (Love Conquers All), “I Am Yours,” and “True Love.” Others were more personal or romantic, such as “Love Me and I Will Love You” or “Forever Faithful.” Some inscriptions were more playful, offering messages like “For Ever and A Day” or “To My Dear.” During the Renaissance, it became customary for some wealthy families to engrave their family mottos or personal sayings on these rings. The rings could also feature the names or initials of the individuals involved, sometimes alongside a date to mark the significance of the occasion. The inscription was more than just a message—it was a piece of art, often etched with delicate craftsmanship to reflect the intricate emotions of the wearer. This intimate inscription turned each posey ring into a unique, one-of-a-kind treasure.

The Popularity of Posey Rings in the 16th and 17th Centuries

During the 16th and 17th centuries, posey rings reached their peak of popularity. They were worn not only by lovers but also by individuals seeking to express religious devotion or spiritual connection. They were commonly given as wedding rings, engagement rings, or even as tokens of friendship. In some cases, these rings were used for practical purposes as well. For example, during the time of Queen Elizabeth I, posey rings were sometimes worn by members of the royal court, engraved with mottoes or prayers to ensure safety or bring good fortune. They were thought to possess protective qualities, especially when the inscriptions were religious in nature. The 17th century saw a shift in the types of messages engraved on posey rings. Along with romantic and religious phrases, they also became associated with personal expressions of friendship or loyalty, and sometimes, messages of solidarity or support during times of political or social unrest.

From the British Museum, the exterior of this gold posy ring has remains of white enamel on geometric pattern, inscription and engraved flower inside with black enamel. The inscrciption reads 'PRENES EN GRE' which translates to 'ACCEPT THIS WILLINGLY'. Joan Evans in her book 'English Posies and Posy rings' records PRENES EN GRE which she identifies as an inscription on a decorated ring belonging to her half brother Sir Arthur Evans.

Antique posey ring

This ring was formerly part of the collection of Dame Joan Evans (1893-1977), art historian and collector. The inscription on this ring reads 'keep faith till death', an appeal to the wearer and perhaps a reference to the marriage service in which the couple pledge to be faithful until 'death do us part'.

The Decline and Revival of Posey Rings

While the popularity of posey rings waned during the 18th and 19th centuries, they never truly disappeared. As mass production and industrialisation took over the jewellery industry, personalised jewellery, such as posey rings, fell out of fashion. However, during the Victorian era, there was a resurgence of interest in sentimental and personalised jewellery. The Victorians, who valued deep emotional connections, were drawn to the poetic tradition of posey rings. These rings became associated with the concept of “sentimental jewellery,” which was worn to remember a loved one or mark an important occasion. During this time, posey rings often featured not only engraved inscriptions but also gemstones and decorative elements. By the 20th century, posey rings had largely fallen out of mainstream fashion, though collectors and antique jewellery enthusiasts still sought out these precious historical pieces. In recent years, however, posey rings have seen a modest revival as people look for ways to create personalised, meaningful jewellery that tells a story.

The Popularity of Posey Rings in the 16th and 17th Centuries

During the 16th and 17th centuries, posey rings reached their peak of popularity. They were worn not only by lovers but also by individuals seeking to express religious devotion or spiritual connection. They were commonly given as wedding rings, engagement rings, or even as tokens of friendship. In some cases, these rings were used for practical purposes as well. For example, during the time of Queen Elizabeth I, posey rings were sometimes worn by members of the royal court, engraved with mottoes or prayers to ensure safety or bring good fortune. They were thought to possess protective qualities, especially when the inscriptions were religious in nature. The 17th century saw a shift in the types of messages engraved on posey rings. Along with romantic and religious phrases, they also became associated with personal expressions of friendship or loyalty, and sometimes, messages of solidarity or support during times of political or social unrest.

From the British Museum, the exterior of this gold posy ring has remains of white enamel on geometric pattern, inscription and engraved flower inside with black enamel. The inscrciption reads 'PRENES EN GRE' which translates to 'ACCEPT THIS WILLINGLY'. Joan Evans in her book 'English Posies and Posy rings' records PRENES EN GRE which she identifies as an inscription on a decorated ring belonging to her half brother Sir Arthur Evans.

Posey rings symbolise more than just beauty; they embody the emotions and sentiments of their time.  Just as in the past, posey rings remain a way to capture the essence of a relationship or a pivotal moment in time, turning a simple piece of jewellery into a timeless memento.

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