1812
A Charles I double sided swivel memento mori gold seal ring
A Charles I double sided swivel memento mori gold seal ring, one of the octagonal sides engraved with arms, three horizontal fish beneath a helm and scrolling border, the other side centred with a scull and crossbones on black enamel ground within white enamel border containing flowers, possibly including daffodils. The gallery chased with assorted flowers possibly including daffodils and tulips with the remains of enamel decoration. Worn shank. The head 1.9cm high. 14g. Size P 1/2. With a letter from Miss Somers Cocks, assistant keeper of metalwork, Victoria & Albert Museum, 21st February 1983 in which she confirms the age of the ring and also refers to another revolving seal ring, number 115 in her exhibition Princely Magnificence. With Heraldry of Fish by Thomas Moule which lists and illustrates notices of the principle families bearing fish in their arms.