May 27, 2020 Founders & Patriots
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/27/2020
Turned ivory handle (3" long x 1 3/16" diameter at base) on which is mounted a bloodstone seal (7/16" diameter), set in a silver collar (3/4" L x 19/32" dia. at the seal) that is edge-finished with a pattern of 13 stylized facets or stars, symbolizing the 13 united colonies of America. The iconographic impact and historical importance of this seal, as its relates to the patriotic zeal in Revolutionary New England, cannot be emphasized enough. The bloodstone seal has been reverse-engraved by an extremely accomplished hand, its positive impression on wax revealing the following: "FOR [elm tree motif--the New England "Tree of Liberty"--for purposes of this seal, the word "LIBERTY"] / [a Masonic eye--symbolizing "I"] LIVE", or "FOR LIBERTY I LIVE." This striking seal was almost certainly made for a leading figure of the Sons of Liberty and, as believed by the collector who found this seal and first recognized its importance (and hence, the title of his book), very likely done by Paul Revere of Boston, leading silversmith and engraver, Mason and one of the leading members of the Sons of Liberty. As noted by Mr. Benting, it "is known that Paul Revere made bloodstone seals", while neighboring artisan Isaac Greenwood was "an ivory turner...instrument maker, and tooth carver." JLK
Illustrated and described on pp. 66-67 of "For Liberty I Live", as well as shown on the book's cover.