English, second half 16th century

hexagonal bezel centred by a death's head surrounded by  +REMEMBER.DEYTH and round the edge NOCE TE IPSVM (know thyself) shoulders with scrollwork with black enamelled foliage extending to the shank

A rare survivor this ring has some enamel loss in particular to the skull on the bezel. Minor losses to black letting and scrollwork on the shoulders. Overall condition good with wear to gold consistent with age.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Although portraits from as early as 1550 show sitters wearing such rings, few survive.  Note the portrait of the Welsh lawyer Edward Goodman illustrated by Scarisbrick as well as the portrait of Mark Ker in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery of 1551. The Victoria & Albert Museum have two similar rings with different inscriptions although one has the similar Nosse te ipsum on the side.

RELATED LITERATURE
C.Oman, British Rings 800-1914, London, 1974, nos.85b and c; Princely Magnificence, Court Jewels of the Renaissance, ex.cat. Victoria & Albert Museum, London 1980, no 20, p.53; D.Scarisbrick, Rings, symbols of wealth, power and affection, London, 1993, pp.68,69