Burma, second half 18th century

Overall, the condition of the ring is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is some wear to the enamelling, including some losses, in particular to the lower part of the tail. The third ruby furthest from the head appears to be a later replacement and is slightly loose. The ring would probably once have had gem-set eyes. The tongue is a little loose, though this may be intentional. There are some minor surface scratches and abrasions, and a small indent to the sides of the tail near the mid-point. There is some dirt to the crevices.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

These impressive and rare dragon rings have been a feature of all the great ring collections, including the Harari, Guilhou, Spitzer, Franks, and Koch collections. They are known as 'Naga rings' because they are thought to represent the naga dragon which is thought to have sheltered the Buddha during a prolonged period of meditation. Chadour suggests that these rings were made for Royalty. (op.cit.) The extravagant design certainly re-enforces the idea that they were made for lavish ceremonial use. Another example is in the British Museum (op.cit., no. 2422).

The present ring comes from the same collection as that sold on 9 July 2015, lot 121.

RELATED LITERATURE
O.M. Dalton, Catalogue of the finger rings, cat. British Museum, London, 1912, no. 2422; J. Boardman and D. Scarisbrick, The Ralph Harari collection of finger rings, London, 1978, p. 88, no. 214; A. B. Chadour, Rings: The Alice and Louis Koch collection, Leeds, 1994, vol. II, p. 620, no. 1955