Gold 'R J Arn[ ]bt 26 Nov 1713 Oet 27' Memento Mori Skull Ring. Early 18th century A.D. A gold memento mori ring with D-section hoop, outer face engraved with a stylised skull and dense band of flowers and foliate vines with remains of black enamel fill, the interior inscribed 'R I Arn obt 26 Nov 1713 æt 27' in script, followed by Gothic letters 'IC' in rectangular cartouche. Cf. The British Museum, museum number 1961,1202.385, for a similar design, and AF.1542 for what is possibly the same maker's mark, which the BM describes as a possible variant of the mark of John Collier of Plymouth. 5.23 grams, 19.35 mm overall, 15.97 mm internal diameter (approximate size British J, USA 4 3/4, Europe 8.69, Japan 8) (3/4 in.) Acquired on the UK antiques market between 1974-1985. Albert Ward collection (part 3), Essex, UK. Accompanied by an old handwritten title card. [No Reserve] [A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website]

Very fine condition, nick to interior.