A hardstone cameo portrait,, by Giovanni Battista Weder, late 18th century

Depicting the head of Dr Martin Folkes (1690-1754), in profile, facing right, in a later ring mount, signed at base of bust Weder F, ring size R, length 23mm, width 18mm

This is cameo is derived from a medal of scientist and antiquarian Dr Martin Folkes by Jacques-Antoine Dassier (1715-1759). Dassier produced a series of 13 medals of famous figures living in England - others included Alexander Pope, Robert Walpole and Sir Hans Sloane. Folkes was president of both the Royal Society and the Society of Antiquaries. See L Forrer, "Biographical Dictionary of Medallists", 1904, pp 510ff, Edward Hawkins, "Medallic Illustrations of the History of Great Britain and Ireland", 1885 (reprint 1969), 558/185 and Christopher Elmer, "British Commemorative Medals", 210, No 556.

Master gem engraver Giovanni Battista Weder was born in Rome in 1742. Patrons included the Pope and the Russian court.

Provenance:
A private UK single-owner collection formed in the mid 20th century

This lot is to be sold without reserve