- 39
Enamelled gold and gem set 'Masquerade' ring, circa 1770
Estimate
3,000 - 4,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- enamel, ruby, gold, diamond
The bezel depicting a carnival mask decorated with monochrome enamel with rose diamond eyes within a surround of foil backed rectangular rubies to openwork radiating shoulders, size K½, later 19th century fitted case.
Literature
Cf: Jewellery from Renaissance to Art Deco 1540-1940, Albion Art Co Ltd, page 88.
Cf: Diana Scarisbrick, Rings, Thames and Hudson, page 135, for illustrations of carnival mask rings.
Cf: Diana Scarisbrick, Rings, Thames and Hudson, page 135, for illustrations of carnival mask rings.
Condition
Accompanied by a collection of letters detailing the family history of the ring describing how the hinged locket was soldered shut in 1850 to preserve a lock of hair concealed within.
Abrasions to enamel on face and pitting to enamel. Garnets with severe abrasions to facet edges, and two garnets chipped. Scratches and areas of tarnishing to metal surface consistent with wear.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
Catalogue Note
Such rings were given as tokens of sentiment during the 18th century. Carnival masks, entwined hearts, flower baskets and gaming cards were all employed, inscribed with romantic prose or concealing lockets containing locks of hair.