Skeletal Memento Mori Band Circa 1720

Memento Mori ring, circa 1720, known as a skeletal, as the whole length of the skeleton is employed on the outside of the hoop, together with other emblems. The earliest noted example is dated 1659. This ring is unusual, as the skeleton on this band is accompanied by a running hound and floral motif.

I am always surprised at how tiny these rings are -- this one is only 2mm in width, yet the enameling is amazing!