Attributed to Giovanni Pichler (1734-1791) Italian, Rome, late 18th century

Sir Alfred Morrison, Fonthill, Wiltshire, until 1897;
by descent to Lady Mabel Morrison, Fonthill, Wiltshire;
her sale, Christie's London, June 1898, lot 227;
Charles Edmund Newton-Robinson, Swanage;
his sale Christie's London, 22 June 1909, lot 155

G. Lippold, Gemmen und Kameen des Altertums und der Neuzeit, 1922, p. 184,  pl. CXII, no. 1

Overall the condition of the ring is good with some minor wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is a small scratch to the back of the figure's neck. The bezel has some scratches to the side which may include an inscription.
"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."

Compare this Silenus of Socratic type to a signed gem of the same subject by Pichler also illustrated by Lippold (op.cit., pl. CXII, no. 3).