This miniature is attributed to Ivan Winberg (fl. 1825–46), court miniaturist at St Petersburg, whose miniatures on a larger scale were, however, generally signed. It is based on a portrait by Franz Krüger, Court Painter to Frederick William IV, King of Prussia, and subsequently to his brother-in-law, Tsar Nicholas I, dating from c.1833. The significance of the date engraved on the ring is unclear but must have been of consequence to the original recipient of the ring. On 29 September 1834 Nicholas I arrived at Kalouga in central Russia in mid-afternoon en route for Orel where a review of the 3rd Corps of Cavalry was planned. He was received by the civil governor and by military authorities and was occupied with affairs of government for the rest of that day. Yeas later ring was acquired by Queen Mary (1867 - 1953).
Gold, diamonds, enamel.
Sight size 13 x 12 mm.
Marked with a St. Petersburg assay officer year mark "anchors+1847", gold hallmark "72" and maker's mark "AH".
Engraved with with "Pour Prescrit - du - 29 Sept: 1834/As prescribed [by the Emperor] on September 29, 1834".