Jewellery has long been a medium for artistic expression, personal adornment, and cultural symbolism. Animal Jewellery representations range from lifelike depictions to abstract interpretations, each capturing the essence of the creatures they represent.
Ancient Times
Animals in jewellery date back to ancient civilisations, where they were not merely decorative but had deep symbolic meanings. The Egyptians, for instance, frequently used the scarab beetle in their jewellery, symbolising rebirth and protection. The Greeks and Romans favoured animals such as lions, eagles, and dolphins, often representing power, strength, and divinity.
These early pieces were often crafted from precious metals and stones, and the animals were chosen for their symbolic resonance.
Victorian Era
The Victorian era marked a significant shift in the use of animal motifs in jewellery. With Queen Victoria's love of nature and animals, jewellery from this period often featured detailed representations of the natural world. This era saw the rise of insect-inspired jewellery, with cicadas, bees, and butterflies becoming popular motifs.
Jewellery from this period was also marked by a fascination with the exotic. As Britain expanded its empire, jewellery began to incorporate animals from far-flung lands, such as snakes and salamanders, symbolising both the allure and danger of the unknown.
The Art Nouveau Movement
The Art Nouveau movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought a new wave of creativity to jewellery design. Art Nouveau jewellery often featured animals in fluid, dynamic poses.
This period also saw the use of new materials and techniques, such as enamelling, which allowed for more vibrant and varied representations of animals. The emphasis was on capturing the spirit or essence of the animal.
The Early 20th Century
As the Art Nouveau movement faded, there was a return to more realistic depictions of animals in jewellery. Spiders, often associated with creativity and patience, became a popular motif, reflecting a society that was both fascinated by the natural world.
Jewellery from this period also began to explore the darker, more mysterious aspects of animal symbolism. The panther, for example, symbolises both elegance and danger.
Modern Interpretations
Modern jewellery embraces a broader range of animals each chosen for its symbolic resonance or aesthetic appeal. Techniques such as 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD) have opened new possibilities, allowing for more intricate and lifelike representations to be created.
Jewellery Day One | Tuesday 8th October 2024
Jewellery Day Two | Wednesday 9th October 2024
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Monday 7th October 10:00-16:00
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