Neoclassical "Cock & Calanthus" Intaglio Signet Ring
An exceptional signet ring set with an early 19th century neoclassical jasper intaglio depicting a cockerel (or chicken) facing left next to a calanthus (basket) containing branches of grain. The stone was carved in the Georgian period, circa 1800, and the artist was apparently quite familiar with both the anatomy of the creature, and the Roman symbolism of the cockerel/chicken and grain. It's unusual in that the subject is not a specific deity or hero, as these neoclassical pieces so often depicted, but that of a far more obscure (and potentially less romantic) theme.
The symbology is of abundance and prosperity, the cockerel being often associated with Mercury. During the Roman period, such intaglios were used to impress a clay or wax seal to be used as the personal signature of the owner. It was therefore imperative that the seals were unique to their owners, and, although they were occasionally passed down as heirlooms as with Augustus's famous sphinx seal, they were often destroyed on the death of the owner to prevent unauthorised use (as with Petronius, Nero's one time favourite who, having fallen out of favour, is known to have destroyed his seal before committing suicide). Roman personal seals were mainly used in the execution of legal contracts, whereby the document would be folded inside a wooden tablet (tabulae ceratae) and tied with a length of cord. The ends of the cord would be sealed in wax with an intaglio impression. If the contract was especially important, seven seals would be used with the name of each signatory written in ink alongside his seal.
This intaglio is mounted am 18ct gold contemporary ring with a 22ct bezel setting. The craftsmanship is exceptional, constructed in the Georgian style in keeping with the intaglio.
Era: Neoclassical intaglio, circa 1800. Ring mount is contemporary.
Ring size: 5.75 US or K 1/2 UK/AUS. Resizable for £35.
Head size: 18mm by 14mm
Weight: 8.7g
Stone: Jasper
Marks: None, tested as 18ct gold with 22ct gold setting
Condition: Excellent
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This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable)
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
Shipping
Express shipping is free of charge and carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
UPS Express (International)
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£35 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
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Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
A 25% deposit will be taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved, often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 2-3 weeks to shipping times
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