Gold signet ring carved with the image of a wheat sheaf. 17th centuty

A gold signet ring carved with the image of a wheat sheaf.

German, mid 17th century.

Ring size S UK / 9 US.

The bezel measures 1.3 x 1.1cm.

The wheat sheaf was a symbol of abundance and fertility, the flanking initials ‘P’ and ‘H’ represent the name of the original owner.
This ring would have been used as a signet, pressed into hot wax to seal a letter or packet. Personal seals provided an essential legal safeguard and were used to witness documents such as wills, deeds of gift, loans and commercial documents, personal letters and land indentures.