This 9k ring is set with a provocative yet beautifully carved intaglio of the goddess Venus, and must have brought a smile on the face of its original owner!
An intaglio is an image cut engraved into a material, and this technique has been in use since the Assyrian culture, some 5000 years ago. Originally, intaglio were used as seals to stamp into hot wax, but over time, their decorative function prevailed. They were made in all kinds of materials, from clay to hard minerals such as onyx. In the 18th Century, James Tassie (1735 - 1799) popularized creating classical cameos and intaglio in paste.
This 18th Century example is made from brown paste and depicts a lady - likely the Goddess of love, Venus - showing her naked torso and suggestively pointing to her lower region, which is covered by a veil.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: US 8.25, UK Q, circumference 58 mm.
This ring could be resized if desired.
Weight: 4.38 grams.
Age: 18th Century, also known as the Georgian era, circa 1760s.
Material: Acid tested as 10k gold. Please note that this is below the legal gold grade in some countries.
Condition: In good antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes only.