This unique, museum quality partially gilded silver and niello Renaissance signet ring is probably Italian, circa 1580.
The engraved signet conceals a double meaning: a grotesque face of the owner with mustache and a small beard is discernible in what, at first sight, appears to be a feathered helmet surmounted by a crown.
The shoulders of the ring are embellished with nielloed black scrolls.
The engraved bezel measures 20 x 18 mm (3/4 x 11/16 in.)
Ring size 11.5 (21 mm)
The ring is in excellent condition for its age. It is very well made and comfortable to wear.
