Lot 570
  • 570

An Imperial presentation jewelled gold ring, St Petersburg, 1856

Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 GBP
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Description

  • size Y 3/4
centred with an opal within circular-cut diamonds, the inside of the shank engraved: Présenté par I.M. L'Empereur de toutes les Russies à Henry Bradbury 1857, with maker's mark A.P. or A.B. in Latin, 72 standard

Provenance

The engraved inscription presumably refers to the great English naturist, Henry Bradbury (1831-1860), whose work, The Ferms of Great Britain and Ireland (1855), was well-known in European Courts.   

Condition

Approx 1 1/2 carats of diamonds. The opal with original matrix, slightly abraded surface.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. 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 any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
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

For a discussion of Imperial gifts without Imperial emblems, including an illustration (p. 228) of a similar presentation ring set with an emerald and given by Emperor Alexander II to inventor Vladimir S. Baranovskii in 1875, see U. Tillander-Godenhielm, The Russian Imperial Award System, 1894-1917, 2005, pp. 220-235.