Estate Cartier 18K Gold Armorial Winged Bull Intaglio Crest Cufflinks

Valor and Magnanimity are represented by the winged bull in a coat of arms on a crest or shield. Bravery, generosity, fortitude and strength are further symbolisms. The Complete guide to Heraldry lists the bull as a crest belonging to the arms of the Marquis of Abergavenny, Verelst, Blyth, Ffinden, Ridley, Sykes, de Hoghton, Earl of Shaftesbury. There is an association with the City of Oxford as well as the Worshipful Company of Butchers, a London Guild, granted in 1541, one of the Livery Companies of the City of London. The company has had Royal connections dating back to James I since 1605 and continues to have strong links with the British Monarchy- Queen Elizabeth II was admitted as an Honorary Freeman in 1976 and the Princess Royal, admitted in 2003, served as Master 2011-12. The winged bull is an allusion to Saint Luke, the Patron Saint of Butchers. Also of note, the bull is associated with optimism of Wall Street. These beautifully engraved Cartier cufflinks date to the first half of the 20th Century. Excellent details to the engravings, substantial solid gold construction, classic Georgian style with personalized initials which may be further engraved as decorative elements if desired. Excellent condition with age appropriate surface wear. Signed on the back Cartier, inventory numbers Dimensions: 17mm by 19mm by 22mm