The Antique Georgian 18th Century 'Know Thyself' Memento Mori Ring

'Nosse Te Ipsum', or 'Know Thyself' reads the inscription on this 18th century ring as a skeleton contemplates existence.

Memento Mori rings were a medieval tradition designed to remind the wearer of the preciousness of life. Often given or made after a death, these rings ask you to reflect upon your life for a moment and 'remember you will die', sometimes with that exact phrase in Latin, 'memento mori', on the ring.

This ring asks the wearer to 'know thyself', and instead of the traditional motif of death being your inescapable end it shows us in three states. We are alive in contemplation, yet knowing that we are, in the grand scheme of it all, already dead. This idea that we are all to end, that is so common in memento mori rings, is met with an optimistic flower to the right of the skeleton. While we are alive now, and death is inevitable for us all, life will be born from our death.

This silver ring with D-section hoop, expanding to fluted shoulders supporting a cushion-shaped bezel, and a raised rectangular panel with rounded edges features an open back to the head (now empty), where someone could have placed a memento of their deceased loved one.

This ring, circa the late 18th century, tests as silver and has some light scorching and cracking to the band. However, it remains in fully wearable condition.

Please find the Jewellery Assessment Report, (see the end image in the gallery) for more detailed information.

Provenance: Acquired from an established BNTA and AIAA registered ancient art dealer. Formerly in a private collection of a Sussex lady since the mid 1960s.

Please note that this ring is currently on display at Hemswell Antique Centres and will have a delivery delay of 3-4 working days.