Medieval Crusaders Era Bronze Archer's Thumb Ring

Medieval, Crusaders Era, c. 1095 - 1291, Europe.

Fantastic, large and impressive Medieval bronze archer's thumb ring with flat-section hoop, triangular flange extension decorated hatched line border, dots, and a recumbent lion motif. Ancient archers wore rings on the thumb to protect it from the thrust of the bowstring. The bow was drawn by hooking the thumb around the string just under the arrow, and bracing it against the first finger. With the release of the bowstring, the ring would both shield the thumb while also allowing the string to swiftly glide past it. Archers rings have been found made of many materials, including jade, metal, silver, leather, horn, ivory, and even glass. According to some ancient beliefs, wearing a thumb ring can ward off spells, misfortunes, and illness. In many cases, these thumb rings would be engraved with specific symbols to further scare off evil spirits, demons, and dark scourges. The Crusades were a series of religious wars initiated, supported, and sometimes directed by the Christian Latin Church in the medieval period. The best known of these military expeditions are those to the Holy Land in the period between 1095 and 1291 that were intended to reconquer Jerusalem and its surrounding area from Muslim rule.

Excellent condition, smooth shiny patina, wearable. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. Lovely patina. Dents and minimal corrosion. Size approx. 2,6cm x 2,6cm x 2,0cm. 

Provenance: Private collection from Sweden.