A curious and unusual Stanhope signet ring, combining Victorian ingenuity with a playful naughtiness...
Created in gold plated base metal, the ring is designed in the classic signet style. At first glance it appears to be an unassuming piece of jewellery, but hidden within is a secret. Looking through the tiny lens set into one side reveals a miniature photographic image ~ a reclining nude woman, captured in miniature detail.
These fascinating optical novelties are known as Stanhope viewers, named after the 19th century optical lens developed by René Dagron. By mounting an incredibly small photographic transparency behind a microscopic lens, it became possible to hide detailed images inside everyday objects. During the late Victorian and Edwardian periods, Stanhope viewers were incorporated into rings, watch fobs, walking canes, charms, sewing tools, and souvenirs, delighting owners with their hidden worlds.
While most Stanhope viewers contained views of famous landmarks, religious imagery, or tourist attractions, others were created as discreet 'Peep Show', revealing playful or risqué images intended to surprise and amuse. Their secretive nature made them popular conversation pieces, allowing the owner to carry a hidden image that could only be discovered by those who knew exactly where to look.
The ring itself has a pleasingly timeless signet profile, allowing the optical illusion to remain its focal point. There is something wonderfully entertaining about the contrast between its modest exterior and the hidden scene concealed within.
An unusual and highly collectable piece of antique optical history, certain to surprise every person who looks through its tiny lens.
Item Details
ERA: Circa 1900
MEASUREMENTS: Q 1/2 (UK/AU) 8.5 (US)
WEIGHT: 4.2 grams
HALLMARK / MATERIAL: Gold Plated Base Metal
CONDITION: This ring is in lovely antique condition with a light patina of wear across the gold and the picture is clear and visible to the naked eye
Please note the antique box is for display only
