18th c Georgian Amatory Ring

A lovely 18th century Georgian sentimental ring, made in Britain c. 1770-80s, likely to commemorate a marriage or betrothal, featuring a central field of twin hearts raised atop a column beneath the word “UNITED” and surrounded by twin poplar trees, all beneath a dome of polished quartz crystal and surrounded by a halo of almandine garnet. The ring’s construction, with its circular head and slim knifed shank connecting seamlessly to a smooth convex posterior, is of a rather minimalistic design popular in England during the neoclassical period, circa 1770-80s. Several rings of this type are in the British Museum (AF.1715), including an amatory example with the inscription “L’amour Nous Unit” and a twin heart illustration (AF.1105). The central scene on the present ring was executed by mixing sepia watercolors, gum, and chopped hair (likely from the couple united in sentiment). The meaning conveyed is “united in love”. The supporting column, always painted whole, further represents strength and the marriage altar. The double poplar trees symbolize fertility and abundance.
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