The Vestal Virgins. An important classical brooch/pendant in the style of the antique

Object Description

‘The Vestal Virgins’
An important classical jewel in the style of the antique by the Art Nouveau Parisian jeweler René Foy.
Semi circular colonade of ionic columns. Strung between the capitals are enamelled floral garlands. The central motif is of the Vestal Virgins dancing around the sacred flame supported by a half column.
An extraordinary jewel by René Foy whose contribution to the Paris International Exhibition 1900 was greatly praised.
The brooch fitting can be unscrewed to allow for the hinged pendant loops (Please see ‘Reverse’ view).

Object History

Now in the collection of The Victoria & Albert Museum
Given in memory of David

Object Literature

cf. Art Nouveau Jewelry, Vivienne Becker, 1985, p. 219, pl. 119. The Paris Salons 1895-1914, Jewellery, Alastair Duncan, 1994, Vol 1, The Designers A-K, p. 264-270
The Belle Epoque of French Jewellery 1850-1910, Thomas Heneage & Co Ltd, 1990, p. 231-233

Object Condition

Very good

Object Details