Antique Art Nouveau hair comb in original, fitted box. Gilded and enamelled. Made in Paris, France, circal 1900 by Antony Beaudouin, who exihibited that year in the Exposition Universelle.
Measurements: Weight is 16.1 grams. Measures approximately 3 1/4 inches (8.5cm) at widest part. 2 3/8 inches (6cm) from top to bottom.
Description :
Comb with 17 'teeth'. Curved and shaped in classic Art Nouveau style with rich gilding in the form of elongated, swirling foliage that curls around a pair of dark enamelled berries off-centre. The berries are placed a little to the left and the swaying foliage leads the eye to the right, thus creating a perfectly balanced asymmetry.
The view from the back, including the studs that help hold the decoration in place are nearly as impressive as the front, reflecting the great quality of work.
As wearable today as it was 125 years ago.
The great condition of the comb is likely thanks to the original, fitted box. Made of leather with silk lining and embossed with maker's information in the inside lid. See 'marks' below. top of lid with gold-embossed pattern.
Marks and Metal:
The interior lid with two crests, presumably of aristocratic customers and bearing the words "Beaudouin joaillier-orf vre hors-concours, 253 Rue Saint Honor , pr s la place Vend me, Paris".
Condition:
Good with negligible 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 son of a piano maker, Antony Beaudouin, born in 1858 was well-known especially for his delicate Art Nouveau flower and figural themed jewelry. Not only did Georges Leturcq - one of the greatest names in antique French jewelry work for him, but he exhibited in the 1900 Paris Exposition Universelle.
