FEDE RING (ITALY, 1400s)

Silver, engraved. This ring combines the ancient fede (faith) motif of two hands clasped together, with another motif depicting two hands holding a heart. These symbols signified love and fidelity. It is likely that this ring was a love token, representing everlasting love, or perhaps a betrothal ring. Fede rings were made all over Europe in the Middle Ages.