Circa 16th century A.D. Comprising a D-section hoop with coffin-shaped shoulder plaques, each plaque with a full skeleton on black-enamelled background; flower-shaped bezel with a central white-enamelled skull in three-quarter view with black detailing, inscription '+ DIE x TO x LIVE' surrounding. See Dalton, O. M., Franks Bequest: Catalogue of the Finger Rings, British Museum, London, 1912, no.1450; see also Oman, C.C., British Rings 800-1914, London, 1974, item 85(B), for type. 7.57 grams, 22.30 mm overall, 19.16 x 17.53 mm internal diameter (approximate size British R, USA 8 1/2, Europe 18 3/4, Japan 18) (7/8 in.).

Ex private collection, UK. with Notaras Coins and Antiquities, before 2014. European private collection, acquired from the above. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12144-218185.

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