Antique Art Nouveau brooch w hand-painted miniature plaque. 18k yellow gold. Titled La Danse. Made in Paris, France by Boucheron - circa 1900.
Suitable for a woman or a man.
Measurements:
Length approx 25.5mm. Note 'photo shows both cm and inches. Weight 8.5grams.
Description:
Triangular or pear shaped with beautifully modelled tiny flowers and foliage on the shoulders and apex, very classic Art Nouveau in style and workmanship. The ridged gold frame with alternating moulded tiny beads and lines. Back fully enclosed in gold. The miniature painted plaque depicts a woman in semi-diaphenous robe, with flowing scarf, perhaps inspired by the dancer Loie Fuller, who was extremely popular in Paris at the time. The title of the plaque "La Danse" appears to confirm this. Painting enclosed in a glazed panel. Pin with simple C-clasp. Excellent workmanship.
Marks:
the back of the plaque is engraved La Danse BOUCHERON PARIS. The lettering is clearly original and unique to Boucheron (see the formation of the 'B' and 'P'. French hallmarks, on the pin and the c-clasp are partially rubbed.
Condition:
good considering the age, with minor wear commensurate with age and use. Please see enlarged 'photos and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
THE STORY:
The renowned Parisian jeweller Frederic Boucheron (1830-1902) gathered around him a team of talented freelance designers and craftsmen to execute his work. This brooch decorated by Fernand Paillet (1850-1918) who was highly regarded as a painter of classical miniatures on ivory and porcelain. This early 20th century miniature was considered a particularly good example of his work and was retailed through the House of Boucheron on the Place Vendome.
Loie Fuller was an American who gained Parisien fame with her dance, including diaphanous robes and scarves that changed color via colored lighting. She pioneered the use of colored lights to create visual effect, thus paving the way for modern dance. She was the talk of the town and many other dancers emulated her style and robes.
