Betrothal ring
15th century
Object PlaceItaly
Medium/TechniqueSilver, niello
DimensionsHeight x width (central medallion): 5/16 x 5/8 in. (0.8 x 1.6 cm)
Height x width (shank): 13/16 x 15/16 in. (2 x 2.4 cm)
Height x width (shank): 13/16 x 15/16 in. (2 x 2.4 cm)
Credit LineWilliam D. Boardman Collection—Gift of Mrs. Alice L. Boardman
Accession number01.5977
On View
On viewClassificationsJewelry / Adornment
DescriptionThese three pieces of jewelry are all associated with marriage. The clasping hands on one of the rings represent the marriage vow, and a promise of fidelity (the Italian word for wedding ring is fede, or faith). The profile portrait of a woman appears on the other ring, between what seem to be coats-of-arms that signify the joining of two families; clasping hands complete the circle, making clear the association with marriage. Finally, the paired profiles on the pendant join the couples in everlasting dialogue.
ProvenanceAbout 1892/1896, acquired in Europe by William Dorr Boardman (b. 1869 – d. 1896), Boston; 1896, upon his death, to his mother, Alice L. Putnam Boardman (b. 1840 – d. 1923), Boston; 1901, gift of Alice L. Boardman to the MFA. (Accession Date: May 29, 1901)
19th century
about 1455–65
11th–12th century
first half of 6th century