Gold and enamel posy ring 'To express my loue'

Code: 11050

This is a wonderful example of a decorated gold posy ring, dating to the 17th - 18th century. The ring is inscribed "To express my loue" (To express my love). It bears a single makers mark of a letter 'P' (confused with the later date letter for London of 1730). In my opinion, this ring is much earlier and of 17th rather than 18th-century date. It is unusual to have so much of the original enamel remaining, its small size likely the cause. Such a ring would have been standard goldsmiths stock, hung up on pegs for use as Valentine's day gifts. The small size would suggest it was designed to be worn on a ribbon (as was the fashion) or on the upper joints of the hand. Nice and collectible little ring!

OBJECT: POSY RING

CULTURE:  Stuart / Georgian

DATE: c. 17th - 18th century

MATERIAL: GOLD 22k & Enamel

RING SIZE:    2  (US)     D  (UK)

SIZE: 15mm x 4mm

WEIGHT:  1.97 grams

PROVENANCE: Found near York