Neoclassicism vs Christianity in a Bracelet Clasp from the Late 18th Century

Two of the greatest art styles to affect mourning and sentimental jewellery are neoclassicism and romanticism, looking back to classical ideals, a renewal of antique art and thinking, which permeated through to architecture and even literature.

This example holds the words ‘Not Lost But Gone Before’ and exemplifies this style, with its urn (harkening back to the Greek style and draped for mourning), though it is trapped in a contemporary setting of a church and cemetery. Painted with sepia and hair, this is a beautiful example of its form and time.

Spotlight On: Bracelets

Popularity of the bracelet worked well with the neoclassical movement of the latter 18th Century. The size, and reliance on…

Spotlight On: Hairwork Bracelet

Certain weaves in hair jewellery stretch to fit different sized areas (such as the neck or wrist). This seemingly small…