Spotlight On: S King, Jan 4 1796 Mourning Ring

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With neoclassical pieces, there is continuity to them and not just a broad period where different styles were mixed. Notice the increasing reliance on enamel work and its symbolism (blue: considered royalty / white: purity and innocence) as well as the placement of stones and the reliance of pearls. Shapes changed and evolved from the larger navette oval to become smaller and slowly more oval.

Hairwork became more popular than painting on ivory and when symbolism was used, it became part of the gold-work or enamel-work. Using the initial of the loved one was a proud way to show affection to a loved one, rather than alluding to a loved one in symbolism.

Notice the similarities between this piece and the other initial pieces of the late 18th century – their colour and materials. The use of pearls became more prominent and shanks and bands conformed to the shape of the finger.

This piece is quite heavy with its gold-work and very detailed around the shank.

This scroll-work is on an exceptional quality and the oval face itself is another interesting point. The curve to the face bows in at the middle, with the glass memento being highly domed, rather than flat faced.

Country: England
Year: Jan 4 1796
Dedication: S King, Jan 4 1796

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