1100-1300 AD, Medieval. Bronze ring with D-shaped hoop and flattened, round bezel featuring incised decoration depicting a shield with two crossed arrows framed by serpents and crowned with a vegetal motif. Heraldry, or the use of an inherited coat of arms, was a means by which to display personal identity and familial relations. This tradition began during the 12th century AD in battlefield contexts were elites needed a symbol to display in order to be easily recognizable even when their faces were obscured by armour. By the 13th century AD this practice was adopted by nobles and knights who took immense pride in their family arms and colours. The heraldic ring was a key part of this personal branding as it allowed the owner to stamp their coat of arms on their correspondences. Excellent condition; Size: D: 19.51mm / US: 9 5/8 / UK: T; 9g; Provenance: Important London collection of Ancient art; formed in 1970s then passed by descent.