Jewellery, Watches, Silver & Objects of Vertu

A mid 19th century diamond three stone ring, the principal old brilliant-cut diamond between two similarly-cut diamonds, the inner band inscribed ‘Prince Consort, to William Bartholomew 1855’, mounted in gold, total diamond weight approximately 1.00 carat, ring size Q. £1,500-£2,000

William Bartholomew (1793-1867) was an English chemist and amateur composer and writer who is best remembered for his work with Felix Mendelssohn. He notably translated the anthem ‘Hear Mr Prayer’ (1845) and the critically acclaimed oratorio ‘Elijah.’ The premiere of ‘Hear My Prayer’ was accompanied by the well known organist Ann Mounsey, who later married Bartholomew in 1853. In 1855 they composed and wrote ‘A Choral Ode’ that was performed on the occasion of Prince Albert laying the foundation stone of the Birmingham and Midland Institute.