Infinity at its Finest: Georgian Snake Fob

Very grand in size, this Georgian era solid 18k yellow gold fob seal is a masterpiece of gold work and of carving. An oval shaped carnelian stone, long used by the ancients for signets, intaglios and cameos, is the medium of choice for a superbly insculpted classical female profile. Precise and crisp details such as the waves in her hair and creases at the corners of her lips make for a first-class image.

Not to be outdone by the intaglio, the gold work is a whirlwind of design. The top and sides of the base sport two variations of a basket weave pattern. The handle itself is an Ouroboros motif—that of a snake swallowing its own tail—representing infinity and the universal nature of completion, perfection and totality. Skilled engraving provides the illusion of reptile skin replete with its unique texture. A moveable O-ring is patterned with a design similar to the base.

Very large in scale and august in presentation, the fob measures 1-3/4 inches (4.6 cm) in length including top O-ring with a diameter of more than ¾ of an inch (2.1 cm). The base itself measures just shy of 1-3/8 inches (3.4 cm) by more than 1 inch (2.7 cm). The fob has a substantial weight of 24.5 grams. In excellent condition. Three “dark” spots in the image are natural inclusions of the carnelian. English in origin and dates to circa 1800.