Swallows and Maidens Brooch

About the Art

With its undulating lines, whiplash curves and maidens deep in reverie, this brooch epitomizes French Art Nouveau interest in natural forms. The design is rendered in the flat, abstract manner of Japanese prints, which were popular in Europe after Japan opened to international trade in 1853.

FEATURED IMAGE
René Lalique (French 1860–1945), Swallows and Maidens Brooch, 1889–1900, gold, enamel, plique-a-jour enamel, large baroque pearl, 2 5/16 x 2 3/4 inches (5.9 x 7 cm). Museum purchase with funds provided by the James F. Dicke Family, 1998.36