Ring of friendship

1700 - 1800

The board game Mensch ärgere Dich nicht (Don’t get annoyed, man) was extremely popular among German troops in the First World War, but a Don’t-get-annoyed ring is something quite unique. From the end of the sixteenth century they were exchanged among friends and lovers to test each others’ dexterity and patience. The ring consists of six parts which can be dismantled. The challenge is to put them back together as they should be. It seems this could be frustrating.

• Places and dates

  Unknown, 1700? - 1800? (Production)

• Materials

  Silver

• Category

  Jewellery

• Object number

  S1862

• IPR status

  Public domain