A hallmarked 9ct gold signet ring made in Birmingham in 1918 by William and John Sanders, and one carrying a story that sets it entirely apart.
The face bears a cast relief Minokawa — a great celestial bird from Philippine mythology said to try to swallow the sun and moon, a symbol of power, hunger and the eternal pull between light and dark. The bird sits proud of the face, wings spread wide, talons gripping a crescent moon, the detail in the feathers and claws sharp and deliberate after more than a century. Its appearance on an English-made ring of this period is unusual and speaks directly to the reach of global influence in early twentieth century design. This is not a standard signet. It is a piece of mythology worn on the hand.
The build matches the ambition of the design. Solid construction, strong shoulders, clean proportions and a beautifully balanced form. The 9ct gold has mellowed into that rich antique yellow only age can bring. Hallmarks are clear inside the band.
At 6.4 grams it has satisfying substance.
9ct gold · Birmingham hallmarked 1918 · Makers William and John Sanders · Cast relief Minokawa bird · Weight 6.4g · Ring size UK S · US 9⅛ · EU 60.25