The Pekingese is a breed of toy dog originating in China. They were favored by royalty of the Chinese Imperial court as a companion dog, and the name refers to the city of Beijing (Peking) where the Forbidden City is located.
During the Second Opium War in 1860, the Emperor of China fled from the attack of the Summer Palace with his court members. A British soldier, Captain John Hart Dunne found a lone Pekingese dog in the palace, which he brought back to England. He presented the dog to Queen Victoria, who named her Looty. Five more were found after the palace was burned, and were brought back to Great Britain, finding homes with members of the aristocracy. Sadly, the looting of the dogs was accompanied by the theft of cultural Chinese artifacts and artworks, some of which remain in the British Museum. The rare and exotic dogs were considered a novelty, and their likenesses were made into figurines and jewelry. By the turn of the century, they were a popular breed in all Western countries with many notable fashion and artistic icons enjoying them as pets. With the history of any antiquity, the circumstances of origin could be forgotten or ignored, but as responsible caretakers of these items, we should all acknowledge the truth in our beautiful objects.
Converted from an antique stick pin, this darling ring has a wonderfully detailed Pekingese pup with diamond eyes on a repurposed vintage shank. Full of charm and personality, he is sure to be your favorite pet the minute you put him on your finger, and a promise to honor other cultures with admiration rather than plunder.
Details (approximate):
Size (can be resized): 6.5
Weight: 7 grams
Materials: 14K yellow gold, Diamond
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent converted Antique condition commensurate with age and wear