896
A pair of Retro Earrings
Estimate €200–300
895
A snake ring
Estimate €450–650
Description
Gold (800/000) representing a snake set with one single cut diamond with an approximate weight of 0.05 ct.
Portuguese hallmark in use from 1938 to 1984 and goldsmith's mark of the same period.
(signs of wear)
Size: 18.1mm
3.2 g
Text
Popular from the 19th century onwards, the serpent coiled upon itself, or ouroboros, symbolises eternal love and conjugal devotion. Greatly appreciated in Victorian jewellery, the serpent symbolised an indissoluble bond, as well as the cyclical renewal of life. They were therefore widely used as engagement rings, with production extending into the 20th century.
The relationship between what we see and what we know is never complete. The way we see things is influenced by what we know, or by what we believe.
