This May, as we celebrate South Australia's History Festival, we are proud to unveil an exceptional and rare treasure; a piece that is not only a work of art, but a tangible connection to the storied past of our state. Introducing Captain Daniel Tapley’s Antique Gold Lion Intaglio Seal, a symbol of strength, prestige, and historical significance.
Crafted in the mid-19th century, this yellow gold intaglio seal stands as a testament to both exquisite craftsmanship and the rich legacy of its original owner. Featuring a powerful lion standing tall on a base of intricate, hand-engraved gold scrollwork, this seal is set with white agate and engraved with the initials ‘DT’ in reverse. The lion, an enduring symbol of courage and nobility, perfectly captures the spirit of Captain Daniel Tapley, whose life was marked by adventure and service on the high seas.
This is a beautiful example of a gold case seal. The piece itself features a wonderful lion on it. It's chased, it's robust and in really fine condition. - Gerard McCabe
The Life of Captain Daniel Tapley
Born in 1815 in Britain, Captain Daniel Tapley was a distinguished Master Mariner with an illustrious career, particularly with the prestigious East India Company. After years of navigating the vast oceans, Tapley made the monumental decision to immigrate to South Australia in 1869. He settled in the burgeoning port city of Port Adelaide, where he quickly established himself as a prominent figure. In recognition of his expertise and contributions to the maritime community, Tapley was appointed a Warden of the Marine Board, playing a pivotal role in the development of the region’s maritime infrastructure.
A portrait of Captain Daniel Tapley
Tapley’s life and legacy are deeply woven into the fabric of early South Australian history. His brother, Thomas Tapley, was equally influential; his farm on Tapley’s Hill giving rise to the road still bearing the Tapley name today. This road, stretching to the Port Adelaide Docks, was a vital lifeline for transporting produce to the city, and remains an important landmark in Adelaide’s historical landscape.
Captain Daniel Tapley passed away in 1881, leaving behind a family legacy that would carry his name forward through the generations. His Lion Intaglio Seal, a reflection of his character and journey, was passed down within his family and has now found its way into the Gerard McCabe Antique collection.
It’s a piece that would appeal to anyone who’s a mariner, a collector of Australiana, interested in the early pioneers and the Clipper ship, The City of Adelaide. - Gerard McCabe
A Symbol of Strength and Prestige
The Lion Intaglio Seal is not merely a piece of jewellery; it is a symbol of prestige and resilience. The lion, carved with incredible detail, evokes the essence of leadership and bravery, while the reverse engraving of ‘DT’ personalises this remarkable piece, linking it directly to its distinguished owner.
As you hold this seal in your hands, you hold the echoes of a man who spent his life navigating the seas, who helped shape the future of Port Adelaide, and whose name lives on in the streets and history of South Australia. This is a one-of-a-kind piece, and it carries with it the rich, layered history of its original owner and the Tapley family; a true piece of South Australian heritage.
Our family has a proud heritage with our jewellers stretching back generations beginning in 1878 - not long after this stamp was created - so it’s something that carries sentimentality to us. - Gerard McCabe
A Symbol of Strength and Prestige
Now, as we honour the stories and legacies of those who shaped our past during South Australia's History Festival, we are thrilled to offer you the chance to behold this extraordinary piece of history. The Lion Intaglio Seal will be displayed in our Adelaide Arcade boutique throughout the entire month of May, so be sure to visit us to view this breathtaking piece up close.
Whether you are an avid collector of rare and historical antiques, or simply someone who appreciates the connection between jewellery and heritage, this seal is an unparalleled opportunity to acquire a truly exceptional piece.
This item has since been sold, however it will remain available for viewing at our Adelaide Arcade boutique throughout the month of May.
Click the video below to hear from our Founder, Gerard McCabe, as he reveals the fascinating story behind this exceptionally rare piece:
Head over to our online events calendar to learn more about other history-related events that are happening this month.
