Egyptian Style Lapis Lazuli Scarab Bead Pair

With a D-section hoop flaring out to an oval bezel bearing the engraved incuse arms 'party per fess, two fleurs-de-lys and chequy (in four rows of six pieces)' with bird-head crest above and foliate tendrils at sides. 14.20 grams, 24.10 mm overall, 20.80 mm internal diameter (approximate size British V 1/2, USA 10 3/4, Europe 24.4, Japan 23)



From a 1990s private collection. Property of a European gentleman. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11907-205633.

While linking this ring firmly to a branch of a family requires further research, the combination of two fleurs-de-lys with a partial chequy in a coat of arms is connected to the badge of the Rothesay Herald of Arms and also to the Dukes of Rothesay, sons of the Kings of Scotland and with the dukedom first conferred on David, eldest son of Robert III, in 1398 A.D. and the office of Herald passing down to the present day; the arms on this ring could perhaps be connected to this dukedom or office.

A button link with crowned hearts on a textured field. 0.96 grams, 15 mm



Acquired on the UK art market. Property of a Somerset collector, UK, since at least the early 2000s.

Cufflinks and other dress fittings such as buttons featuring crowned hearts design were originally conceived to commemorate the marriage of king Charles II of England to Catherine of Braganza in 1662, although the design continued as a general symbol of love and/or marriage.

An indenture: handwritten in English in ink over forty-four ruled lines; with multiple signatures; red wax seals bearing impressions. 187 grams, 59.5 x 42 cm



Acquired 1970s onwards. Private collection of Michael O'Hara, Cambridgeshire, UK. Ex private collection of Benjamin Hyde-Smith, Hertfordshire, UK.