Reproduction of the Famous Chain of Esses in Silver

The Collar of Esses was one of the most famous livery collars of all time (and yes, that's supposed to say 'Esses' not 'Essex').It signified that the wearer was the designated driver in all royal outings, and could only drink non-alcoholic beverages at parties where . um .. okay, actually, the livery collar was given to all carriage drivers during the renaissance, especially during.. Hmm. One sec. Let me do a little research.

Okay, got it. The livery collar, oddly enough, had nothing do with driving or horses. It's actually a collar worn to denote attachment to a great person by friends, servants and political supporters. This attachment usually came in the form of a political appointment.
The Collar of Esses was worn by several of the Tudor kings and their retainers and advisors. This reproduction of the collar is an exact copy of one version of this famous chain of office. It features a mysterious chain made from stylish versions of the letter "s." No one really knows why they used the letter 'S," although there are many theories. The chain clasps a Tudor Rose badge between two portcullis gates, exactly like the collar worn and given out by Henry VIII. Available in Brass or antiqued, silver-style metal, the chain measures 36 inches in circumference and bears a Tudor Rose 3.5 inches in height. The collar is also available with no badge, as a chain of office with no affiliations.