Georgian Miniature Portrait Ring in Box

The miniature portrait on ivory of Mr. F. Noble is set under rock crystal and surrounded by fine natural pearls. Prior to the advent of photography there certainly was no better way to remember loved ones. Those still living and those departed, all were captured by having their portrait painted in miniature. Expensive in nature, if one could not afford a portrait, a silhouette was the best economical choice. In fact, the tradition dates back to Queen Elizabeth I. Visit the V&A Museum in London and usually on display are several extraordinary examples from her court.

Mr. Noble is still handsome in his powdered curled wig, blue waist coat and white ruffed shirt. On the reverse, we see a rather unusual hair compartment rimmed with white enamel. It reads, "F. Noble, Ob 9th May 1790" for the date of his passing. The compartment inside the locket still holds its original multi-colored and plaited hair. All is set in a typical late 18th century simple, but large mount of rose gold. The generous oval was typical of this era. Quite unusual, it still rests within its original red leather and cream silk box.

Condition: Very good; two tiny chips to the underside of the rock crystal visible with a loupe; the right side of the powdered wig curl has tiny area of paint loss or fading. Light scuffing to the gold ring; the underside has more scuffing and the enamel has crazing. Box is very good for its age with general scuffing and some loss of red leather to the bottom and a bit to the top; inner liner lightly aged; some patina where the ring has oxidized the fabric; one small hole in the silk.

Measurements: 1-1/4 inches (3.2 cm) in length by 7/8 of an inch (2.5 cm) in width. Currently a size US 8 (UK P-1/2; Euro 18.25; just over 57 mm). Can be sized by our jewelers. This antique ring has a weight of 9.6 grams.

Date & Origin: Circa 1790 and is English in origin.

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