Hairwork Memorial Ring Reportedly with a Plaited Lock of George Washington's Hair

Description:

Hairwork Memorial Ring Reportedly with a Plaited Lock of George Washington's Hair, the gold band is mounted with a finely braided lock of ginger-colored hair and a small foliate-engraved plaque.

Provenance: It is reported by the consignor that the ring descended in her family from the early part of the 20th century. Originally, a lock of hair was given by George Washington as a token of esteem to his aide-de-camp Alexander Hamilton. It descended to Hamilton's son James A. Hamilton. In 1872, James gave the lock of hair to Mrs. Margaret (Cash) Pechin (1812-1911) of Philadelphia, where it was lent or gifted by her to the Washington Memorial Chapel at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. Upon Mrs. Pechin's death, the ring was returned to her family, and descended through Dupont and Moreland families, and lastly to the consignor, Mrs. Margaret Pechin's great-great niece. At some point the lock of hair was incorporated into a memorial ring. The ring is accompanied by a small undated c. 1900 newspaper clipping announcing the gift of the lock of Washington's hair by Mrs. Pechin. An internet search for Mrs. Margaret Pechin of Philadelphia brings up several similar articles about her donation of the lock of hair to the Washington Memorial Chapel.
Estimate $800-1,200

The ring is about 12kt gold (tests for 10kt and just barely for 14kt),is size 8 1/2, probably a man's ring, it is in very good condition.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

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