Georgian, cut steel butterfly hairpin

Description : When the French King Louis the XV requested that all citizens donate their fine jewelry to his campaign, cut steel jewelry became wildly popular. His reign was from September 1, 1710, to his death in 1774. As King he was a beloved ruler. When it was outlawed for the 'commenor' to own fine jewelry, cut steel became the replacement. Difficult to fashion, each steel detail was individually fabricated, polished and attached to the back form. This butterfly is a hairpiece, and the cut steel is attached to a rod that becomes 'en tremblant', meaning that it quivers as the wearer moves. What a hairpiece this would be for a fun night out, or costume party! Shivering and sparkling in the evening light would surely be an eye-catcher, as well as a historic treasure with such a back story to tell. The hairpin is placed into the hair, and the butterfly appears floating above the head, as if it had just alit.

Item Number : 10-22

Category : HAIR JEWELRY

Brand : VICTORIAN