This splendid cut steel butterfly is large and imposing. Possibly once a hair pin, or perhaps part of a bodice piece, it now has a later brooch fitting, making it wearable once again for today’s fashions.

Despite its unusually large dimensions of 3 1/4 inches by 3 inches it looks light and ethereal due to the large spaces defining elements within the solid outline.

Dating from the late 18th or early 19th century, when the work was best, it is covered with individual handcrafted and polished multifaceted tiny steel half-spheres attached to rivets, which are pushed through the supporting backplate, filed, then polished.

The steel heads here come in different sizes, and the faceting has many aspects. There are charming accent elements, with marquise shapes artfully used for the antennae, wings and body patterns, and a spearhead for the tail – all signs of early manufacture.

Unusually it is three-dimensional – most examples were quite flat – adding to the overall drama.

FREE WORLDWIDE EXPRESS SHIPPING, TRACKED AND INSURED

• Handmade in cut steel
• Approximately 8cm (3 1/4 inches) wide, 7cm (3 inches) tall
• Weight is 19.1 grams
• In excellent antique condition
• Will come in a Karen Deakin gift box (my antique boxes are not for sale)
• Note: some of the other Georgian and Victorian cut steel jewellery is for sale separately – please get in touch if you’d like information about any of it

Please examine the photographs carefully – they form part of the description.

I’d be very happy to send more information and images. Layaway available.

I accept returns within 14 days if you’re not delighted with your purchase.