An Officer & A Gentleman - Georgian Portrait Ring

The later part of the 18th century revolved quite rapidly from grandiose and baroque styles to streamlined silhouettes and restrained classically inspired lines. An 18k yellow gold ring of perfect proportion and sensuous curves houses a miniature portrait of a handsome gentleman of means. Circa 1790 to 1810, the miniature is on ivory and rendered in watercolor and gouache. Continental in origin, it is most likely that with his aristocratic pose and garb that the sitter is an official and a military officer. It may likely be Franz II, Keizer Franz II van Oostenrijk, ruler of Austria from 1741 to 1790.

Currently a US size 6-3/4 (UK l 1/2; Euro 53; 16 3/4 mm). Can easily be sized. The ring measures 5/8 of an inch north to south, the miniature is ½ of an inch long by 7/16 of an inch wide (1.5 cm long and 1.2 cm by 1 cm for the miniature).

In very good condition with light wear to the gold. A countless number of handlings has resulted in gold as fine as any silk; the miniature is fine with bright colors; a few specks of dirt between the glass and the ivory; light wear to the glass. Suitable for wear by a man or woman.

Important: This ring should not be exposed to any liquids, water, cleaning products or harsh chemicals due to the miniature portrait.