Medieval, Crusaders Era Bronze Inner 18.18mm "Star of Bethlehem" ring (No reserve price)
02
days
07
hours
59
minutes
40
seconds
Current bid
€ 3
No reserve price
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
 | €3 |
|---|
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 143397 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Inner 18.18mm "Star of Bethlehem" ring, a medieval bronze Crusader-era piece with a central cross within a lozenge frame and four radiating beams, reflecting Christian devotion and bearing an archaeological patina; condition Good and authenticity Original/official, acquired in 2025 from an auction house in the Netherlands from a private collection.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
This remarkable medieval bronze ring is a powerful expression of Christian devotion, bearing a simple yet deeply symbolic design engraved upon its bezel. At its center appears a radiant cross enclosed within a lozenge-shaped frame, surrounded by four stylized rays or celestial beams. Together, these elements evoke the image of the Star of Bethlehem — the heavenly sign that guided the Three Wise Men to the birthplace of Christ.
In the spiritual imagination of the Middle Ages, the Star of Bethlehem represented far more than a biblical event. It symbolized divine guidance, hope in times of uncertainty, and God's light leading the faithful along the correct path. For pilgrims, crusaders, and travelers crossing dangerous lands, such imagery served as a constant reminder that heavenly protection accompanied those who walked in faith.
The ring's understated design reflects the practical piety of the Crusader era. Rather than displaying wealth, it emphasizes devotion and personal belief. The engraved cross at the center signifies salvation and Christ's sacrifice, while the surrounding radiating motif transforms the symbol into a celestial beacon — a star illuminating the darkness.
Its naturally aged surface and rich archaeological patina testify to centuries of history. The slender hoop and raised bezel suggest a ring intended for daily wear, perhaps by a pilgrim returning from the Holy Land, a crusader knight, or a devout Christian seeking spiritual protection.
More than an ornament, this ring served as a wearable profession of faith — a small but meaningful object connecting its owner to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and the sacred geography of Christianity.
This remarkable medieval bronze ring is a powerful expression of Christian devotion, bearing a simple yet deeply symbolic design engraved upon its bezel. At its center appears a radiant cross enclosed within a lozenge-shaped frame, surrounded by four stylized rays or celestial beams. Together, these elements evoke the image of the Star of Bethlehem — the heavenly sign that guided the Three Wise Men to the birthplace of Christ.
In the spiritual imagination of the Middle Ages, the Star of Bethlehem represented far more than a biblical event. It symbolized divine guidance, hope in times of uncertainty, and God's light leading the faithful along the correct path. For pilgrims, crusaders, and travelers crossing dangerous lands, such imagery served as a constant reminder that heavenly protection accompanied those who walked in faith.
The ring's understated design reflects the practical piety of the Crusader era. Rather than displaying wealth, it emphasizes devotion and personal belief. The engraved cross at the center signifies salvation and Christ's sacrifice, while the surrounding radiating motif transforms the symbol into a celestial beacon — a star illuminating the darkness.
Its naturally aged surface and rich archaeological patina testify to centuries of history. The slender hoop and raised bezel suggest a ring intended for daily wear, perhaps by a pilgrim returning from the Holy Land, a crusader knight, or a devout Christian seeking spiritual protection.
More than an ornament, this ring served as a wearable profession of faith — a small but meaningful object connecting its owner to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and the sacred geography of Christianity.
Details
Culture
Medieval, Crusaders Era
Century/timeframe
circa 11th–13th century AD
Name of object
Inner 18.18mm "Star of Bethlehem" ring
Acquired from
Auction house
Year acquired
2025
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
Netherlands
Condition
Good
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Previous owner - year acquired
1996
Previous owner - country acquired from
Netherlands
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
