Roman Intaglio Ring — Duke of Wellington Collection

Roman intaglio, 1st–2nd century AD · Rome, 19th-century setting

An exceptionally charming Roman intaglio ring with an important British provenance, formerly part of the celebrated gem collection of Arthur Richard Wellesley, 2nd Duke of Wellington (1807–1884).

The ancient oval moss agate intaglio is finely engraved with a standing cow beside a small tree, upon a ground line. It is set in an elegant 19th-century Roman gold mount, fashioned in 18-carat yellow gold with delicate twisted-wire openwork.

The ring formed part of the historic Wellington Gems, which remained in the Wellesley family until the collection was acquired by S. J. Phillips of New Bond Street, London, in 1976. It was subsequently exhibited and published by the renowned jewellery historian Diana Scarisbrick in The Wellington Gems in 1977.

A rare opportunity to acquire an ancient Roman engraved gem combining classical subject matter, distinguished aristocratic provenance and documented exhibition history.

Intaglio: Roman, 1st–2nd century AD
Mount: Rome, 19th century
Metal: 18-carat yellow gold
Intaglio: Moss agate, 10.6 × 8.2 mm
Ring size: EU 56
Gross weight: 4.87 g

Provenance
Arthur Richard Wellesley, 2nd Duke of Wellington (1807–1884); by descent through the Wellesley family; acquired from the family by S. J. Phillips Ltd., London, 1976; private British collection; reacquired by S. J. Phillips Ltd. in February 2014.

Published
Diana Scarisbrick, The Wellington Gems, S. J. Phillips Ltd., London, 1977, cat. no. 14.
Gorny & Mosch, Munich, Auction 305, 16 July 2024, lot 542.

Exhibited
The Wellington Gems, S. J. Phillips Ltd., 139 New Bond Street, London, June 1977, cat. no. 14.