Antique 9ct gold posy padlock ring ref 3576

An antique posy ring in padlock form, tested as 9ct gold and weighing 4.5 grams. UK size P, approximately US 7.75 and EU 56. The curved band is inscribed with the words “Pences Povr Moye DV” — an old French and Latin posy meaning “Think of me, God willing.” Alongside the inscription sits a heart pierced by two arrows, a perfect emblem of love. The padlock is beautifully detailed with fine scrollwork and is fully functional, locking and releasing as it should. Posy rings were exchanged from the medieval period through the 18th century as tokens of devotion and remembrance, their inscriptions a secret message carried next to the skin. To find that sentiment in a padlock design is rare, and rarer still in such a weighty, detailed band. Box not included