A banded agate intaglio ring, by Nathaniel Marchant, 1772-88. Estimate £8,000 - 10,000 (€11,000 - 14,000). Photo: Bonhams.
The collet-set oval banded agate plaque, carved to depict Castor and Pollux, the gallery engraved Castor & Pollux, intaglio signed Marchant, intaglio length 2.1cm, ring size J½ (sizing band), Cameo Corner case
Note: Nathaniel Marchant (1739-1816) was probably the most famous gem engraver of the 19th century, being prolific in both Italy and England. He was gem sculptor to The Prince of Wales and engraver to The King.
Provenance: Ex Cameo Corner, Bloomsbury. This intaglio is listed in Gertrud Seidmann, Nathaniel Marchant, Gem-Engraver 1739-1816, 1987, Cat. no. 33, page 47.
Accompanied by two wax impressions made by the artist Ronald Pennell and a photocopy of the relevant entry in Seidmann with a personalised note by the author.
Bonhams. JEWELLERY, 9 Sep 2015 11:00 BST - LONDON, KNIGHTSBRIDGE