Regency 9ct Gold Dolphin Seal with Bloodstone Intaglio “Phyllis”

Regency 9ct Gold Dolphin Seal with Bloodstone Intaglio “Phyllis”A beautifully modelled early 19th century Regency gold cased fob seal, featuring an intertwined dolphin rising to form the handle, a motif rich with both classical and contemporary symbolism. The dolphin was a favourite emblem of the period: drawn from antiquity, associated with protection and safe passage, and adopted in the Regency era as a subtle nod to Britains naval triumphs under Lord Nelson. It also carries echoes of French royal iconography,

A beautifully modelled early 19th-century Regency gold-cased fob seal, featuring an intertwined dolphin rising to form the handle, a motif rich with both classical and contemporary symbolism. The dolphin was a favourite emblem of the period: drawn from antiquity, associated with protection and safe passage, and adopted in the Regency era as a subtle nod to Britain’s naval triumphs under Lord Nelson. It also carries echoes of French royal iconography, the “Dauphin”, adding an additional layer of historical resonance.

The base is set with a polished bloodstone intaglio engraved with the name Phyllis. Names drawn from classical literature were extremely fashionable in the early 19th century, and Phyllis, a pastoral heroine found in Greek myth and in Romantic poetry. It was used by cultured Georgian and Regency families who admired classical revival style. It is an evocative, poetic name that fits seamlessly with the neoclassical sensibilities of the piece.

A wonderfully characterful seal combining symbolism, history and sentiment and a rare surviving example personalised to its original owner.