1000-1500 AD, Crusader Period. A heavy bronze ring with a D-shaped hoop and Maltese cross bezel; both the shoulders and the cross feature punched decoration. The Cross, the principal symbol of Christianity, recalls the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the redeeming benefits of his Passion and death. The cross is thus a sign both of Christ himself and of the faith of Christians. The cross that the Crusaders wore on their robes was a symbol of martyrdom, and to die in combat was considered a great honour that assured a place in heaven. The Crusades were military expeditions, beginning in the late 11th century, that were organized by western European Christians in response to centuries of Muslim wars of expansion in the Holy Lands. People of all social classes took place in the Crusades, from heavily armed knights to humble peasants using improvised weapons, all in pursuit of salvation in the afterlife. Excellent condition; beautiful patina; wearable.Size: D: 17.95mm / US: 7 1/2 / UK: P; 10.7g; Provenance: Private London collection, formed in the 1980-90s on the UK and European art market.