Gold black-letter posy ring, ‘Par bon foy’ - England 15th century

A rare gold black-letter posy ring inscribed ‘Par bon foy’.

English, 15th century.

Ring size N UK / 6.5 US.

The ring is made with a slightly concave hoop and bears the French inscription ‘Par Bon Foy’, which translates to ’In Good Faith’ in Gothic black-letter script. It is decorated with stylised flowers and retains traces of black enamel.

The posy ring bears the inscription in French which during the Middle Ages was the language of the court, signifying that it would have been a high status betrothal jewel.