Lot 574. Formerly in the collection of Maximilian I of Mexico. Diamond ring, mid-19th century. Estimate 22,000 - 34,000 CHF. Lot sold  65,000 CHF. Photo Sothebys 2013

Set with rose diamonds in closed back settings, size 52, original inventory number to reverse. 

Accompanied by a document from Hammer Galleries, New York, dated 1943, stating that this ring was formerly in the collection of Maximilian I of Mexico, and a photograph of this and the many other rings in his collection.

PROVENANCE: Maximilian I (b.1832-1867) renounced his title as Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian, Commander in Chief of the Austrian Navy, in 1863 to gain the title of Emperor Maximilian I of Mexico, a position put forward by Mexican Monarchists and Napoleon III. Captured by Mexican Republicans in 1867 he was sentenced to death, a moment depicted by Edouard Manet in his painting 'The execution of Emperor Maximilian of Mexico'.

Edouard Manet, The Execution of Emperor Maximilian (1868–69), oil on canvas, 252 x 305 cm. Kunsthalle Mannheim

Sotheby's. Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels. Genève, 14 mai 2013