This ring from the 16th century embodies the spirit of the Renaissance, a time when art, faith, and personal devotion were deeply intertwined. The IHS Christogram is interpreted as meaning Iesus Hominum Salvator (“Jesus, Saviour of men” in Latin). The use of the ‘IHS’ monogram as decoration is a late 14th to early/mid 15th century fashion which came into utilisation on various different types of metal items, including buckle plates, strap-ends and book fittings. This abbreviation was given particular prominence from the 15th century by the Franciscan preacher Saint Bernadino of Siena. He persuaded warring Italian city states to lay down their arms and replace them with banners bearing the letters IHS. Wearing a ring with Christian symbols was an outward sign of faith and allowed the wearer to incorporate their religious devotions into daily life. Material: Bronze Period: Post Medieval, 16th century Measurement: 20 x 18 mm, ringsize: 17 mm (7 USA) Condition Extremely fine, wearable, see photos. International registered Delivery. Provenance: The Supplier warrants that it has obtained this lot in a legal manner. Previously the property from a French art dealer; acquired on the European art market in the 1990s Important information: The Seller can prove that the lot was obtained legally , provenance statement seen by Catawiki. Important information. The seller guarantees that he is entitled to ship this lot. The seller will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days.