Gilt silver (vermeil) ring with an oval bezel set with a finely engraved carnelian intaglio depicting Hercules slaying the dragon Ladon, guardian of the golden apples in the Garden of the Hesperides. The hero is shown nude, with a cloak flowing behind him and a club raised to strike. The composition is inspired by classical art, with refined balance and a dynamic sense of movement. Neoclassical in style, the piece likely dates to the 19th century.