This ring was designed by the architect William Burges (1827-1881), known to his contemporaries as "the greatest art-architect of the Gothic Revival". His most important projects include Cardiff Castle and Castell Coch, near Cardiff, in Wales for his patron, the Marquess of Bute. He also designed furniture, wall paintings, silver plate and small amounts of jewellery. His style was heavily influenced by medieval art, particularly church art but reinterpreted with a nineteenth century sensibility. Although many of his projects were never realised, he was an influential and enthusiastic proponent of the Gothic revival style. Burges travelled extensively through Europe, collating sketch books of architectural details and decorative arts.

This ring is much plainer than many of Burges' metalwork designs but is recognisably inspired by the middle ages. The stiff foliage decorating the shoulders is reminiscent of Gothic church architecture, while the bezel is set with a polished but unfaceted sapphire, similar to those used in medieval jewellery.

A design for a ring similar to this one can be found in the album of jewellery designs now in the collection of the V&A.