Antique early Victorian clip, clasp or ring to catch and hold a scarf, dress or handkerchief. Gold and garnet. Made in France circa 1838-1847. Unisex - can be used by a man or a woman. Rare dressing accessory.
Measurements:
Weight is 3.4 grams. A tad under 1 inch (23mm) long.
Description :
Coiling snake, the body winding around itself multiple times, head emerging at one end. Head set with a deep red garnet. Incised detail, mainly around neck and head to indicate scales. The back with a beautifully hinged pair of half-loops, that can be brought together at right angles to the snake's body and through which a fabric can be threaded. The loops can then be laid flat in opposing directions, thus clasping the scarf, dress or handkerchief, per the wearer's wish. Extremely versatile as it can be attached to almost any part of the wearer's attire. Extremely attractive. Well made.
Can also be used as a pendant hanging from a chain - long sautoir or short near the collarbone.
Marks and Metal:
French hallmarks include horse's head twice and maker's mark lozenge. Another mark is unknown/illegible. Horse head was used 1838-1919 for 18k gold. After 1847, the head had a double outline. The horse's on this clip appear to have a single outline, which dates them to the period 1838-1847. The clips were electronically tested as 18k gold and the rest of the snake as 15k. For this early period, it is common for gold not to be homogenous.
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:
Snakes were extremely popular subjects in jewelry since ancient times. They were symbols of eternal life and love. After Prince Albert gave Queen Victoria a serpent engagement ring, there was an even greater burst of enthusiasm for these reptiles in jewelry. Multiple symbolism and multiple options for design and use. This is a particularly unusual, lovely and useful example.
Join the elite who know how to dress. The subtle, yet effective way of making the ordinary look extraordinary. A scarf in handky held together with this wonderful and rare accessroy puts you in the league above.
