Dated 1767 AD. A large gold annular band with keeled inner face, the external face inscribed: 'THOS . KNIGHT . OB : 30 . APR : 1767 . AET : 68' in raised letters followed by aposite lozengiform motif, on a niello background, slender recessed bands above and below. See The British Meum, meum number 1942,1004.1, for a similar ring. 3.80 grams, 21.40mm overall, 18.06mm internal diameter (approximate size British P, A 7 1/2, Europe 16.23, Japan 15) (1"). UK antiques market between 1974-1985. From the Albert Ward collection (part 2), Essex, UK. The traditional practice of bequeathing rings belonging to the deceased to the family and friends they left behind was gradually replaced in the 16th and 17th centuries, when it became preferable for the deceased to leave a sum of money with which memorial,memorative or mourning rings could be purchased. In the later part of the 17th century, such rings were distributed at funeral services, where they were worn in memory of the deceased. Memento mori inscriptions and popular devices such as skulls, crossbones and hourglasses became fashionable on jewellery and in print, prompting the reader or viewer to ponder the brevity of life and the necessity of preparing the soul for death. [No Reserve]