Poison Ring / System / Secret Of Mourning In Solid Gold With Enamel. Early 19th Century, Restoration Period

An exceptional enameled gold ring dating from the first third of the 19th century.

This ring is known as a "poison ring" because the bezel is hinged to reveal a secret compartment.

This small compartment was used to conceal poison, and history tells of several instances of its use to get rid of a troublesome person.

These rings could also be used to hold perfumed oil or a memento of a loved one, such as a lock of hair or a piece of fabric. The ring's shank is hollow to increase its capacity.

The bezel is set with a translucent cabochon of glass or crystal.

The band is decorated with two flowering branches engraved in reserve and enameled in black.

This black enamel possibly indicates a ring made for the mourning of an important person.

The ring is hallmarked:

Ram's head: hallmark for small Parisian gold works between 1819 and 1838

Another barely legible hallmark to identify, probably a goldsmith's mark.

A magnificent and intriguing ring. This is a well-dated and original piece of goldsmithing, not a late copy, as evidenced by the quality of craftsmanship with its virtually invisible hinge, the enamel work, and the goldsmith's virtuosity in creating a hollow ring.

Ring size: 64
1.68 grams gross.

Good condition. A few tiny chips to the enamel and cabochon. Minor cracks and dents on the band. This ring has been worn and shows some signs of age, but is in superb overall condition.

Collection in Paris or shipping via insured Colissimo.
France: €15
Europe: €20
Rest of the world: €35