Antique Art Nouveau bangle bracelet. French, made circa 1880's to early 1900's. Egyptian Revival.
Measurements:
Weight is 16.3 grams. Inner diameter is approximately 2 3/4 inches (6.75cm).
Description :
A cylindrical gold bangle with open space between a pair of head terminals. The heads face one another and are largely seen in profile. Clearly Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs.
Clearly delineated eyes, typical of Ancient Egyptian art. Headdress is classic Egyptian with ridged, feather-like details that point backwards. Extentions above the forehead are reminiscent of cobras. Extentions behind the head, above the neck are papyrus-like. Raised cylindrical bands terminate the figures and are followed by a simple gold cylinder.
Marks and Metal:
3 French hallmarks behind the 'cuff' that terminates one of the necks. French eagle head mark for 18k gold; slightly worn diamond-shaped lozenge for the maker and another, partially visible mark.
Condition:
Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
THE STORY:
The striped headcloth worn by Pharaohs was called the Nemes. It is one of the identifying marks of Ancient Egyptian figures.
During the late 19th century, the French were besotted with Ancient Egypt and much art, including jewelry had this theme. It was a time of Classic Revivals, that looked back at the great civilisations of the Etruscans, Greeks and Romans as well as the Egyptians and others.
