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Gorgeous Antique Suffragette Brooch circa 1920 browse these categories for related items... Directory: Archives: Estate Jewelry: Costume: Rhinestone: Pre 1920: Item # 691577 GlitzQueen History and Art to Wear 56 Calle Monte Aplanado, NW Albuquerque, NM 87120 Phone: 505.205.1404 Guest Book Sold; thank you! (Free U.S. Priority Shipping & Gift-Wrap if Desired) |
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That this exquisite Suffragette brooch comes from a Rhode Island estate adds particular interest, since that state was a major jewelry production center in the early 20th century. Many of the most talented designers and artisans worked for companies located there, and no doubt also created jewels on the side.
This brooch isn't marked, but obviously is by a master with access to excellent materials. The substantial weight of it will surprise you, as will the quality of the art glass and metalwork. Details incorporate Art Nouveau scrollwork plus Arts and Crafts influences seen in the cabochon cut and collet settings of the amethyst, emerald and baroque pearl. The richly textured reverse is beautiful, too. The brooch is in such fabulous shape that you'd almost mistake it for new. However, great age is indicated by the findings. While an early safety clasp is present, the pinstem moves with that wonderful side-to-side wobble that says you've got a true antique. Around 1920 would be right for this hardware. Also arguing for that approximate dating is the size of the brooch. At three inches long, it's larger than earlier bar pins, evolving toward Art Deco boldness. I expect the original owner acquired it very shortly before the vote was gained for all American women in 1920, or perhaps in celebration of the event, and then stored it away very carefully. There's really no other way to explain its virtually pristine condition. It takes serious searching with a loupe to find any signs of surface wear to the gilding or glass. As you know if you collect jewelry of this type, the unusual color combination had deep meaning for early feminists. Green represented hope, purple signified dignity and white stood for purity. The language we associate with "regard" jewelry applied, too: The "G" of green, "W" of white and "V" of violet comprised an abbreviation for Give Women (the) Vote. Forgotten for decades, Suffragette jewelry has been rapidly gaining value since the movie "Iron Jawed Angels" appeared in 2004, revealing what the gals went through (including hunger strikes and beatings). Wearing Suffragette jewels is a great way to show your pride and appreciation and, now that the genre has been rediscovered, they're getting much harder to find. We try our best to keep a good selection, but demand keeps growing. If this strikes your fancy, you'd better not delay. As always, we offer free insured U.S. shipping (or an equivalent discount for international customers). Gift-wrap is also free on request. Please e-mail to confirm availability, order or request more photos. Thanks for looking! |
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