"Et in arcadia ego," which translates to "I too have been to Arcadia," is the title of several paintings and prints by Nicolas Poussin (1637), Guercino (1618), Johann Schütz (1788), and others. It was an early Modern theme that combined an affinity for ancient Greek imagery and philosophy with a contemporary preoccupation with human mortality.

Arcadia is an idyllic Greek landscape representing a blissful, utopian mental state, and the "I" in the title is death incarnate, personified by a skull or, in most paintings, an inscribed tomb. Thus the phrase "et in Arcadia ego" becomes a memento mori; a reminder that even in bliss, death awaits.

Cast in solid sterling silver that has been partially oxidized to enhance the details.

Band measures 1/8 inch wide.

Available in US ring sizes 3-15, including half sizes.

Each piece is made to order, so please allow up to 2-4 weeks for shipment.

*A note on ring sizing: The best way to determine your ring size is to visit a jeweler and either measure your finger with a set of metal sizers, or bring a ring that fits well and have them measure it for you on a mandrel. Measuring with paper or string is not recommended as these methods tend to be inaccurate. Rings can be resized for a flat service/shipping fee of $15.

Kate Hockstein moved to New York City in 2006 to pursue an M.A. in art history, having studied illustration, painting, and printmaking since the mid-90s. In 2014, she discovered the art of ancient Etruscan goldsmithing and has since been almost exclusively focused on jewelry design. She launched her jewelry line Arcana Obscura in 2015.

Kate approaches her work from a sculptural perspective and draws deeply from her love of nature, folk art, and the eldritch and macabre. Her lifelong affinity for old cemeteries and Victorian mourning jewelry are recurring themes throughout her designs, which are cast in solid sterling silver and gold.

Kate works out of her home studio in New York City.

Please note: Shipping fee includes packaging and handling costs