Antique French Silver Intaglio Ring

A striking 19th-century French Neo-Renaissance silver intaglio ring, crafted in the manner of Jules Wièse and Froment-Meurice, two of the most celebrated Parisian jewellers of the period. Dating to around 1840, this intricately designed ring features a milky blue chalcedony intaglio, engraved with a French heraldic coat of arms depicting two roses and a lion. This particular crest was adopted by several noble French families, including the Begon, Joisel, and Oudan families of Champagne (see final image for comparison).

The bezel-set intaglio is flanked by two sculpted greyhounds, a heraldic symbol associated with loyalty, faithfulness, and nobility—a widely used motif in French decorative arts and aristocratic insignia.

The ring is stamped on the outer band with an antique French control mark, which appears to be the ‘mask’ silver mark, indicating it was made in Paris between 1819-1838. Additionally, the inner band bears later English stamps, which suggest it was imported and resold in Britain at a later date.

Jules Wièse (1818-1890), a German-born chiseller and master jeweller, worked closely with the renowned Parisian goldsmith François-Désiré Froment-Meurice (1802-1855), producing exceptional pieces in the Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance styles. Together, they created some of the most significant works of 19th-century French goldsmithing, including the reliquary of the Talisman of Charlemagne for Emperor Napoleon III (1855) and the sword of Marshal de Mac-Mahon (1860). A similar example of their work is held in the British Museum (item AF.2558) (see final image for reference).

Specifications:

• Ring size: UK N / US 7
• Intaglio dimensions: 11mm x 9mm
• Weight: 7.94g
• Material: Silver with antique French and later English hallmarks

A rare and exquisitely crafted piece, embodying the refined artistry of mid-19th-century French jewellery.