Italian, late 18th century

oval, bearing the signature: PERGAMOY for the ancient engraver Pergamos, in Greek lettering and in mirror writing

Prince Stanisław Poniatowski (1754-1833);
his sale Christie's London, 1839, lot 730

S. Poniatowski, Catalogue des Pierres Gravees Antiques de S.A. le Prince Stanislas Poniatowski, 1830, no. VIII.1.81;
Beazley Archive, University of Oxford, Poniatowski Database: http://www.beazley.ox.ac.uk/XDB/ASP/recordDetails.asp?recordCount=2&start=0

Overall the condition of the ring is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age, including dust in the crevices of the carving. There are very minor scratches and abrasions to the stone at the high points where it is not carved, and to Alexander's forehead and nose. There are a few minor nicks and scratches to the gold, notably to the edge of the bezel on the left side, across the bottom of the bezel, and to the inside of the hoop. Two small circular plugs are visible on the bezel on the left and the right side. There is minor oxidation to the gold in a few areas, including to the bezel next to the stone on the left side, and at the back of the hoop. There is slight warping to the hoop. The joint at the back of the bezel is very slightly open in places, but stable.
"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."