Georgian Honey Agate Classic Fob Seal

Design in the 18th and 19th century took a turn towards a renewal of interest in ancient Greek and Roman styles. As a reaction to the over-the-top opulence of the composition of rococo and baroque, it was a relief to return to the simplicity, symmetry and order of the Greco-Romans.

An intaglio has been superbly carved into the surface of a honey agate stone. Classically rendered, it is the profile of a man, possibly Socrates. The intaglio has been set into a 10k solid rose gold bezel. A palmate leaf motif has been placed within modified oval shapes appointed with reeded accents. Substantial and august in weight with a smooth and tactile feel.

In excellent condition the fob measures 1-5/8 inches (4.1 cm) in length including the rigid “O” fitting by 1-1/6 inches (2.7 cm) in width including the small gold surround. Weight of 17.1 grams. Late date rose gold moveable “O” fitting added. Circa 1790 – 1800 and is English in origin. Scale of fob is large to very large. Scarce example.