Bidspirit auction | Antique Sterling Silver Bear Paw

Antique Sterling Silver Bear Paw Overlay Statement Ring - This antique sterling silver statement ring features an asymmetrical shield-shaped face decorated with a bear paw overlay design. The palm of the paw includes a cutout zoomorphic figure, possibly representing a fish or a bird. The design utilizes a textured, darkened background to highlight the raised, polished silver elements. The decorative face is soldered to a split-shank band. The reverse of the face bears a hand-incised maker's mark consisting of an X-shape with three horizontal parallel lines intersecting the upper left arm, and three small vertical parallel tick marks positioned below it. The mark is not legible as a name. Ring Size: 6.5 Face Height: 1 1/8 inches Weight: 0.252 ozt. This antique item shows surface characteristics consistent with its age. There is significant surface wear including scratches and scuffs visible across the polished elements (photo 1). Heavy tarnish and patina are present throughout the recessed areas and on the reverse of the face (photo 3). The band is slightly misshapen from a perfect circle (photo 2). Remnants of yellow polishing compound or residue are visible on the reverse side near the solder points where the band meets the face (photo 9).