Deco Dreams: A Japonism-Inspired 1920s Bracelet

An exquisite Art Deco bracelet, French or Belgian origin circa 1920, epitomises Japonism with its masterful melding of 18K yellow gold, engraved coral beads, and a striking black enamel finish. Four strands of coral beads lead to an enchanting Japanese garden scene, centred by a tulip-engraved coral bead that cleverly conceals the clasp. Flanked by engraved columns and enameled archways, this piece is a poetic testament to 1920s elegance, yearning to grace the wrist of a modern-day muse.

Antique jewelry object group: flexible bracelets/bangles

Country of origin: Although it does not carry any legible control marks we believe this to be of French or Belgian origin.

Style: Art Deco
(more info on styles)

Style specifics: Abstract motives and geometrical forms are quite typical for the Art Deco period.

Period: ca. 1920
(events and facts in 1920)

Source of inspiration: Japan

Theme: Japanese style engravings in the coral

Material: 18K white gold
(more info on precious metals)

Technique: Enamelling is an old and widely-adopted technology. The ancient Egyptians applied enamels to pottery and stone objects. The ancient Greeks, Celts, Russians, and Chinese also used enameling processes on metal objects. Enamel is the colorful result of fusing powdered glass to a substrate by firing, usually between 750 and 850 degrees Celsius. The powder melts and flows and hardens to a smooth, durable vitreous coating on metal, glass or ceramic. According to some sources, the word enamel comes from the High German word smelzan (to smelt) via the Old French esmail. Used as a noun, "an enamel" is a usually small decorative object, coated with enamel coating, such as a champlevé or a cloisonné (different techniques).

Extra information: Japonism, or Japonisme, the original French term, which is also used in English, is a term for the influence of the arts of Japan on those of the West. The word was first used by Jules Claretie in his book L'Art Francais en 1872 published in that year. Works arising from the direct transfer of principles of Japanese art on Western, especially by French artists, are called japonesque.

Precious stones: coral (more info on precious stones):

- Four coral bead strands with 104 corals in total, diameter approx. 6 mm
- Two engraved coral ornaments measuring approx. 17.7 mm by 10.5 mm
- One round shaped engraved coral (the clasp) with a diameter of approx. 16.6 mm

Hallmarks: No trace.
(more info on hallmarks)

Condition: good condition (one of the white gold dishes that are black enameled has some chips off at the edge)
(more info on our condition scale)

Dimensions: length 20.50 cm (8.07 inch)

Weight: 50.00 gram (32.15 dwt)

Reference Nº: 10015-4360

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