Onyx intaglio ring, 18^th century. This ring is set with a striking black onyx with an expertly centred stripe of white – a much-sought after pattern in onyx in the latter half of the 19^th century. This beautiful section of onyx is intricately carved in intaglio with the coat of arms of the Long family, depicted in reverse for imprinting wax seals. The centre depicts a lion rampant emerging from a ducal coronet, within a garter border with the motto ‘Pieux Quoique Preux’ or ‘Pious, though Valiant’. An intaglio seal ring of extraordinary quality – something for the collector.