early 20th century

sterling silver

makers touch ‘J. MOORE’

Makers mark ‘J.CAIRNEY’

mark ‘STG SILVER’

ring engraved 'Medal won by Wm Black, Millburn, 1869'

height 27 x diameter 42 mm, weight 1.38 oz troy

purchased with funds provided by the Charles Disney Art Trust, 1992.181

collection of Auckland War Memorial Museum, S984

New Zealand silver historian, Winsome Shepherd best described this napkin ring that incorporates a plaque of a pastoral scene of sheep, flax and mountains.

‘Agricultural medals provide a valuable key to rural aspects of this country’s history. This napkin ring was manufactured from an Agricultural and Pastoral association medal marked 'J Moore', its also carries the mark for 'J Cairney', a silversmith from Greymouth (flourished 1906-1914). The conversion from the medal to the ring certainly required some skill.’

napkin ring, coin remodelled by John Cairney, Greymouth, New Zealand, early 20th century