Hair ornament
Made by Philippe Wolfers
Belgium
1905-7
Gold, enamel, diamonds and rubies in the form of an orchid
Height 7.6cm
Museum no. M.11-1962

Philippe Wolfers was the most prestigious of the Art Nouveau jewellers working in Brussels. Like his Parisian contemporary René Lalique, he was greatly influenced by the natural world. These exotic orchids feature in the work of both. The technical achievement of enamelling in plique-a-jour (backless) enamel on these undulating surfaces is impressive. Orchids symbolised the Art Nouveau movement and its fascination with nature, sensuality and exotic flowers.