Lauwereyns (?): Exceptional Rock Crystal & Gold Rotating Seal. Marquis. 18th - 19th Century

Magnificent seal in rock crystal and gold. It probably dates from the end of the 18th and/or the beginning of the 19th century.

The rotating matrix is ​​made of rock crystal. It is engraved on its three sides:
. Coat of arms under a marquis' crown, blazoned as follows: Argent, a tree, a chief of gules charged with three martlets. These arms may be those of the Lauwereyns family.
. A number under a marquis' crown: OPH (?)
. A rooster mounting a hen with the phylactery "Gratias".

The engravings are superb, they are very fine and detailed, which gives them great readability.
The faceted sides of the matrix catch and reflect the light like a precious stone.

The crystal is of very high quality, it is very translucent with a few rare inclusions.

The rose gold grip forms a palmette and scroll pattern. The bail is made of yellow gold.
It may be later than the matrix, which seems to date from the 18th century given the quality and the way of the engraving as well as the crystal used.

The gold grip is hallmarked:
. Coquille Saint Jacques for new and used works with a fineness of 14k.
However, the touch is resistant to 18k acid and disappears at 24k. I have already had objects with this hallmark of Coquille Saint Jacques, re-hallmarked with the owl hallmark for 18k gold. This Coquille Saint Jacques hallmark therefore seems to attest to a minimum fineness of 18k.

This seal is magnificent, the use of rock crystal for the rotating matrix makes it a rare and interesting piece. The engravings are varied and of very high quality.

3.5 cm high without the bail
2.6 cm wide

Approximately 2 x 1.8 cm for the dies

14.9 grams

Very good condition. A few tiny scratches on the crystal.

Hand delivery in Paris or insured colissimo shipping.
France: €15
Europe: €20
World: €35