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Auction: 26050 - Jewellery & Objets de Vertu
Lot: 44

JOHN HENRY WYNN, AN EARLY 20TH CENTURY GOLD SNAKE RING
CHESTER, 1918-1919
Designed as a coiled serpent.
The head is engraved and set with an old mine-cut diamond.
Maker's mark 'J. H. W.' for John Henry Wynn
Chester hallmarks
Stamped 18
Size/dimensions: ring size S 1/2 (US 9 1/4)
Gross weight: 6.77g

The diamond is securely set, with minor abrasion noted. The shank shows slight distortion, and the piece exhibits light overall wear, and is offered in good condition.


Snake jewellery enjoyed a remarkable revival during the nineteenth century, becoming one of the defining motifs of the Victorian era. Its renewed popularity is often associated with the engagement ring given to Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1839, designed in the form of a coiled serpent set with an emerald. The jewel’s symbolism of eternity, wisdom and enduring love resonated strongly with Victorian sentiment, and serpent rings, bracelets, brooches and necklaces became highly fashionable throughout the period.



By the early twentieth century, the motif remained in use, though it was often interpreted in a more restrained and streamlined manner, reflecting changing aesthetic tastes. This ring dates to a transitional moment in British jewellery design, immediately following the First World War. Jewellery of this period frequently combined established nineteenth-century symbolism with simplified forms, reflecting both the continuation of tradition and the emergence of more modern design sensibilities.



The jeweller, John Henry Wynn of Birmingham, was prolific, best known for producing well-executed signet rings, Masonic jewellery and personal accessories. Operating within the strong industrial jewellery tradition of Birmingham, his work is characterised by solid craftsmanship, reliable construction and an emphasis on wearable, commercially successful designs rather than high decorative flourish.

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Estimate
£600 to £800

Starting price
£480