Antique Brooch in Gold & Silver With Rose Cut Diamonds, c. 1890

The years between 1890 and 1914 are called "Fin de Siècle" (French for "end of the century"). The jewellery of this period shows a wide range of styles. In addition to Art Nouveau, the so-called garland style, which incorporated 18th-century forms, was especially popular. Among its favorite motifs were bow shapes, which were designed in the most diverse variations from luxurious materials. The brooch presented here beautifully demonstrates the elegance of this style: Designed in the shape of a small bow, the surface of the piece is set with 43 beautiful diamonds in the historical rose cut. Since the surface of the brooch is forged from silver that has been effectively blackened, the stones sparkle mysteriously. A special eye-catcher is also the drop-shaped pearl that is attached to the bow. This can be removed thanks to a hook on the back. In many traditional costumes of Germany, it played a significant role whether the ribbons of the robe are tied or untied and at which point the bow is located! Thus, a Bavarian mnemonic says: "Bow on the left, good luck!" Because if the apron of a Dirndl is tied on the left side, the wearer indicates that she is single. "Hooking up" is therefore permitted and desired here! If, on the other hand, the bow is tied on the right, the lady is married. Tradition says that the wearer of a center bow is still a virgin. So you see that the motive of the bow is by no means trivial in the field of fashions. Similarly, antique jewellery and the bow is one of the most evocative motifs of attachment at all: and thus, not least, a beautiful gift to a loved one!

Estimate:£1,243.15

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