Omar Ramsden - OR1918

Omar Ramsden - Antique Solid Silver Napkin Ring – Omar Ramsden, London 1918

This remarkable antique solid silver napkin ring was made in London in 1918 by the celebrated silversmith Omar Ramsden, one of the most important British silversmiths of the early 20th century. Crafted in a striking triangular form, this unusual design reflects Ramsden’s reputation for combining Arts & Crafts traditions with bold originality.

Weighing a substantial 63 grams and measuring 6cm high by 5cm across, this napkin ring is impressively heavy and beautifully proportioned. It bears good clear hallmarks and remains in remarkable time-warp condition, almost pristine after more than a century.

Provenance

This napkin ring was made for the well-known English tenor Maurice d’Oisly (1882–1949), a popular opera singer of the Edwardian and post-war years. D’Oisly studied at the Royal Academy of Music and went on to perform at Covent Garden, where in 1909 he sang roles in Gli Ugonotti, Elektra, L’Enfant Prodigue, Tristan und Isolde and Ivanhoe. In 1910 he was invited by Sir Thomas Beecham to join his opera productions, becoming a versatile performer in both English and European repertoire. In 1919 he married the acclaimed soprano Rosina Buckman, with whom he frequently performed in Beecham’s Opera Company.

Key Features

• Antique Solid Silver Napkin Ring – London 1918

• Maker: Omar Ramsden, renowned Arts & Crafts silversmith

• Unique triangular form – rare and striking design

• Weight: 63 grams – heavy and superb quality

• Size: 6cm high x 5cm across

• Clear London hallmarks

• Provenance: made for tenor Maurice d’Oisly (1882–1949)

• Condition: outstanding original state, near untouched

A Rare Collector’s Piece

Omar Ramsden silver is highly sought after, and this napkin ring is particularly desirable for its unusual triangular design and fascinating provenance. It is not only a fine piece of British silver but also a connection to the world of early 20th-century opera.

This 1918 Ramsden napkin ring would make a superb addition to a collection of antique silver, an Arts & Crafts specialist collection, or as a gift for a music enthusiast with an eye for unique heritage treasures.