C1690 18K Iberian Bow Form Ring with Table Cut Diamonds
Located in Baltimore, MD
Rare late 17th century seven stone diamond cluster finger ring of bow form from the Iberian Peninsula. This cluster ring is set with 7 table-cut deep diamonds totaling almost 1 carat in rubbed over settings. The arrangement of the diamonds, with the central stone flanked by two rows of three, resembles a bow. The bow motif first appeared in jewelry in the 17th century France in the court of Louis the XIV and soon spread throughout Europe. Bow themed jewels were seen in the gowns worn during the period and in the form of jeweled brooches and finger rings. The 7 diamonds are designed to sparkle in candlelight and are foiled in closed back settings. The back is crafted in a flat basket shape with curvaceous baroque gold-work along the raised edges. The colorful multi colored enamel applied to white enamel at the back of this ring is a feature of this ring. The colors reflect the influence of the Spanish Netherlands to the North of Spain, (Belgium, Luxembourg) and the influence of the Dutch to the north, known for their beautiful and ornate enamel work on tiles and in decoration particularly seen inthe ceramic tiles of Seville (see photos of tilework form the Baroque period). Enameling was applied to the backs of Iberian rings...
Spanish Baroque Antique 17th Century Cluster Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold
