342 - COMBINATION SIGNET RING WITH PIPE TAMPER AND CORKSCREW

COMBINATION SIGNET RING WITH PIPE TAMPER AND CORKSCREW France, iron, 17th c. L: 7.4 cm This object combines two everyday items from the Baroque period. The broad hoop section was designed to be worn or held as a ring. The round plate on the front features an engraved monogram or coat of arms that served as a seal. On the back of the ring, an ornate hinge connects to a hollow, cylindrical metal shaft; this served as a pipe tamper. Additionally, the sleeve can be unscrewed to reveal a corkscrew.