A William IV gold mourning ring, engraved for Jeremy Bentham and Dr. Arnott. Engraved to...

A William IV gold mourning ring, engraved for Jeremy Bentham and Dr. Arnott.

Engraved to interior 'Born 4/15 Feb, 1747, 8, died 6 June 1832 in his 85 Yr.' and 'Jeremy Bentham Hair & Profile' around the glazed locket.
The outside of the band is engraved 'Memento for [indistinct] Arnott'.

Ring size M. 3.1gms.

Jeremy Bentham (1748 – 1832) was an influential philosopher, jurist, and social reformer during the 19th century. He is considered the father of utilitarianism, the philosophy that posits that the morally right action is the one that maximises overall happiness or pleasure and minimises suffering or pain for the greatest number of people. He spoke out on many social issues, being one of the earliest voices in favour of women’s suffrage, animal rights, and the decriminalisation of gay marriage.
He is perhaps most famous for his requests surrounding his death. His mummified remains, or what he referred to as his ‘auto-icon’, are now housed at UCL along with his preserved head. Upon his death he requested his body be donated to science and for a public dissection to be performed. He also requested that 26 mourning rings, featuring his profile in silhouette and a lock of his hair, be given to 26 of his closest friends and family.

This ring was given to Dr. Neil Arnott. Arnott was a highly respected doctor and surgeon, as well as inventor. Among other things he is credited with the invention of the waterbed. 

This ring has been in Arnott’s family since it was first made. It came to Fellows via direct descent.

Read our blog on Jeremy Bentham's mourning rings here

Read our blog on Dr Neil Arnott here

Ivory licence 31V97VB2. 

Export issue: Yes

Postage: Auction Default

Ring size: M

Weight: No

Total lot weight: No