English, circa 1740

the interior of the shank inscribed: Rev,^d. L Kettlewell

Overall the condition of the ring is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is a possible very small chip to the hair of the monkey/boy. There are a few small nicks and scratches to the gold, particularly around the bezel and to the underside. There is a cluster of small nicks/ a joint to the gold above the monkey/boy's head.
"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."

This intriguing little cameo ring changes form. Viewed from above we see a boy, but when the cameo is turned towards its side, we see a monkey. A chrysoberyl monkey, dating to the early 17th century, was found in the Cheapside Hoard Jewels (Forsyth, op. cit.). According to Hazel Forsyth, monkeys were said to be a creature full of 'plaguy tricks' and human vices (op. cit.). The use of chrysoberyl for the portrayal of monkeys, albeit very rare, was widely known, and was specifically discussed by Pierre Jean Mariette in his 1750 volume, Traité des pierres gravées. Two chrysoberyl monkeys were auctioned in Paris in 1745 in sale of M. le Chevalier de La Roque, lots 417 and 446.

RELATED LITERATURE

P-J. Mariette, Traité des pierres gravées, Paris, 1750, vol. i, pp. 176-177; D. Scarisbrick, Rings. Symbols of Wealth, Power and Affection, London, 1993, p. 138; H. Forsyth, The Cheapside Hoard. London's Lost Jewels, London, 2013, p. 181