A DIAMOND, PEARL, RUBY AND EMERALD COCKTAIL RING,...
A DIAMOND, PEARL, RUBY AND EMERALD COCKTAIL RING, CIRCA 1960
The baroque pearl trapped within three talons of a dragon's claw, entwinned a by a snake decorated with a brilliant-cut diamond body and cabochon rubies for eyes, to a textured gold mount accented with four circular-cut emeralds, mounted in 18K gold, diamonds approximately 0.80ct total, ring size L
While the subject is still open for debate, the majority of sources conclude that the ball & claw design first appeared in China. With the expansion of trade during the 17th and 18th centuries, marvels from the east flooded into the European market and many designers assumed artistic affectations in order to emulate Chinese works. Thus, we see the ball and claw being integrated into several facets of European design.
In China, the motif is depicted as a dragon gripping a ball derived of crystal, pearl or other precious material. In Chinese mythology, the dragon is symbolic of the emperor, with a ball being representative of purity and wisdom. By grasping these traits in his talons, the emperor swears to uphold these ideals and to protect them from evil forces which would otherwise bring destruction.
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A DIAMOND, PEARL, RUBY AND EMERALD COCKTAIL RING, CIRCA 1960
The baroque pearl trapped within three talons of a dragon's claw, entwinned a by a snake decorated with a brilliant-cut diamond body and cabochon rubies for eyes, to a textured gold mount accented with four circular-cut emeralds, mounted in 18K gold, diamonds approximately 0.80ct total, ring size L
While the subject is still open for debate, the majority of sources conclude that the ball & claw design first appeared in China. With the expansion of trade during the 17th and 18th centuries, marvels from the east flooded into the European market and many designers assumed artistic affectations in order to emulate Chinese works. Thus, we see the ball and claw being integrated into several facets of European design.
In China, the motif is depicted as a dragon gripping a ball derived of crystal, pearl or other precious material. In Chinese mythology, the dragon is symbolic of the emperor, with a ball being representative of purity and wisdom. By grasping these traits in his talons, the emperor swears to uphold these ideals and to protect them from evil forces which would otherwise bring destruction.
Sale price
Estimate
Time, Location
Auction House
