Cornelian and gold, silhouette locket seal, Miers & Field, 1820s

The gold cased seal, inset with a carved cornelian intaglio depicting the arms of George Bigland of Bigland Hall, concealing a silhouette depicting the profile of a gentleman, signed Miers & Field.

The arms, crest and motto are those of George Bigland of Bigland Hall, Lancashire, the motto above the crest is 'Gratitude'.

Mounted in gold. One cannetille spiral deficient. Some wear to suspension loop commensurate with age and wear. Carnelian intaglio with abrasions and scratches to edges, silhouette in good condition with some traces of dust beneath the glass. Weight approximately 41 grams in total.
"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."

Miers & Field, profile painters, No 111 Strand, London, were prolific silhouette painters operating during the early 19th Century.