Ceremonial Ring That Doubles As A Pendant

Italy, first third of the 19th century (around 1800–1830)

Gold (18 carats minimum, gold tested), natural carnelian.

Remarkable work of high goldsmithing made of solid gold, set with an important unengraved natural carnelian, of beautiful homogeneous orange-red hue.

The body of the ring, forged from a single piece and a particularly harmonious balance, is entirely hand-chiseled with an exceptional floral repertoire executed in strong relief on an amati background. Blossomed and bud roses, open pomegranate, rosettes, radiant flowers and foliage alternate in a composition of great ornamental richness. The whole shows a remarkable sense of decorative balance and an unusual technical virtuosity.

The goldsmith was not limited to the repetition of a unique pattern: each plant element has its own modeling and identity, revealing a real work of sculpture on metal. This ornamental diversity, executed with remarkable precision even on the least visible parts of the frame, characterizes a very high-level production.

The large carnelian, carefully polished on both sides and mounted in a closed set, fully participates in the aesthetics of the whole. The care taken in its shaping, including its perfectly domed reverse, shows that it was originally an essential element of the design of this piece and not a simple support intended to receive an engraving.

The frame is completed by an integrated tubular ring, allowing a hanging port, a watch chain, a castle or pendant. This device, perfectly incorporated into the manufacture, is a particularly rare feature and reinforces the singular character of this creation.

By its exceptional dimensions, the quality of its execution and the richness of its decorative vocabulary, this ring is a remarkable testimony to the high jewelry of the first third of the 19th century, intended for a very high-ranking clientele.

Very good state of conservation.

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Matter

Gold (18 carats minimum, gold tested), natural carnelian.

Dimensions

Length: 4.8 cm

Inner diameter: 2.7 × 3 cm

Weight: 14 g
Recommended price after expertise: 5800 euros