Whether simple or elaborate, bow motifs have been a popular and desirable look all through the history of jewelry. For centuries famous makers and jewelry houses have featured bows in nearly all of their pieces, with stylistic elements that reflect the times and social settings of each era. During the 18th century in the French court of Louis XIV, bow brooches were used as “ribbon language” to communicate one’s availability for matrimony. Typically they were delicately shaped metal and diamond bow brooches called Sévignés, named after the Marquise de Sévigné whose famous French writings spoke of ladies with strategically placed bow brooches and necklaces. A bow worn over the heart indicated the woman was taken and had found true love, a bow dangling around the neck indicated that she was in between loves, and a bow over the décolletage was an invitation for new love suitors.
Crafted in 9 karat yellow gold, this bow brooch features two luscious garnet cabochons, one at the knot of the bow, and one dangling provocatively inside the bottom loop. A beautiful, dramatic, and substantial Victorian piece, she is just smashing when worn on a black velvet ribbon!
English; Circa 1860-1880
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 2 1/8" x 2 1/8"
Weight: 18.42 grams
Materials: Gold, Garnet
Metal: 9K yellow gold
Marks: 9, 375
Condition: Excellent Antique condition commensurate with age and wear