An ‘important’ 17th century yellow metal posie ring is set to go under the hammer at Wotton Auction Rooms in their specialist sale on Thursday, October 3rd.
Set with turquoise, the ring bears an inscription on the inside, possibly a Biblical quote relating to Deuteronomy 32:11 – Like an eagle that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young.
The ring was owned by Sir Matthew Hale SL (1 November 1609 – 25 December 1676) and has been in the same family ever since.
Hale was a highly influential barrister and judge during the reigns of King Charles I, Oliver Cromwell and King Charles II. He was due to represent Charles I at his State trial, however the King refused to recognise the court’s authority and represented himself. Cromwell appointed him ‘Justice of the Common Pleas’.
When Charles II returned to the throne in 1660 the King made him Hall ‘Chief Justice of the King’s Bench’ and knighted him.
Auctioneer Joseph Trinder said: “It’s estimated at £1,000 – £1,500 and we’ve already had significant interest in this, and I’m expecting it to go on from there.”
To see the catalogue click here.
