Victorian Aesthetic Silver Paste Bee Hairpin c.1890s

Description

An absolutely stunning antique hairpin modelled as a bee; the body is made of two sparkling chunky old cut foiled paste stones, set between silver wings which have been hand engraved, with little brass antennae and eyes.

This very rare piece is Victorian and dates to c1890; it is very much in the Aesthetic / early Art Nouveau design when the Victorians were fascinated with taking design inspiration from the natural world. The bee is hinged so he can be angled to make it look as though he’s just naturally alighted in your locks!

I am releasing this from my personal collection of antique pieces and have worn it just day to day in my hair but it would make a particularly stunning addition to a bridal hair do as well as a great addition to any antique jewellery collection.

ERA: Victorian c.1890s

MATERIAL: Foil backed paste, silver gilt backed wings, the rest being gilt brass.

CONDITION: Wonderful antique condition; no chips or cracks to the antique paste stones which are bright and sparkling with minimal wear commensurate with age visible under magnification. The stones are secure in lovely multi claw setting; only one claw missing. Engraved wings have beautiful texture to them and the engraving is still bright. Gilt finish to the brass is still bright and warm buttery colour. Hinge mechanism at the top is secure. Prongs are not bent or twisted and robust so secures nicely in the hair.

CARE GUIDANCE: Whilst in lovely condition and very wearable this is still an antique piece of jewellery as such do not immerse in water or expose to perfumes / aerosols…put it in AFTER you’ve done your hairspray!

SHIPPING: Free inside the U.K and to the U.S. – American buyers please note that you’re responsible for for any import / customs charges to the USA.

 TAGS: Victorian Aesthetic Silver Paste Bee Hairpin c.1890s