Jewellery, Objects of Vertu, Silver and Watches

A 15th century large gold epigraphic ring, the D-section band with black letter inscription to both exterior and interior, reading exterior: ‘ave maria sine labe origin concep’ and interior: ‘ora pro mei e memento mei : IHS’, (adapted), ring size U. £2,000-£3,000

“Ave Maria, sine labe origin concep” is taken from the traditional Catholic prayer ‘Ave Maria, sine labe concepta, ora pro nobis qui ad te confugimus’ which translates as ‘Hail Mary, who is without the stain of original sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee’. The prayer demonstrates adherence to the doctrine of Immaculate Conception which posits that Mary, the mother of Christ, was free of sin from the moment of her own conception. The doctrine of Immaculate Conception was a subject of immense theological debate and opposition between groups within the Catholic church in the Medieval period, but the celebration of the feast day of Mary’s conception took hold during this time.



“Ora pro mei, memento mei" is a Latin devotional phrase translating to ‘Pray for me, remember me’. It is a heartfelt petition, used in Catholic prayer, to ask for intercession and remembrance, typically addressed to the Virgin Mary, or sometimes to other saints.


The letters IHS represent the name of Jesus Christ; they originate from the first three Greek letters (Iota-Eta-Sigma) of His name in Greek: ΙΗΣΟΥΣ (Iēsous).

This ring comprises a D-section outer band, bearing inscription to the exterior. This band has a thin band of metal applied around the interior bearing the second inscription to the interior. Both inscriptions appear to be of a similar date, but have slight differences possibly indicating a different hand. The seam is visible around the sides of the band - see pictures.
Traces of black enamel to both inscriptions. General light wear only.
Gross weight 7.8gm.