A very rare and ornate complete silver Art Nouveau French Chatelaine from the late-Victorian era. All elements hang on their original chains from a brooch fitting. Featuring: an unused “carnet de ball” (dance card) with its matching pencil attachment; a beautiful watch in a locket-case; a mirror with its original glass; and a functioning perfume flacon. All elements are exquisitely crafted with repoussé and embossed foliate, lovebird and floral motifs typical of the era. Most elements are sterling silver and others, such as the interiors of the watch and perfume flacon, are a combination of silver, steel and/or brass. The watch is not currently functioning, though this could be corrected by a reputable jeweler. Each individual item is a work of art in its own right. Together the ensemble is truly wondrous.
C-clasp. 
See all 21 images for details. 
 
For admirers of history, castles, and antiques of form and function, there can be no more wonderful item of jewelry than the chatelaine. 
 
The name “chatelaine” derives from the French term meaning “the mistress of a chateau”. A chatelaine is a decorative pin or belt hook that is worn at the waist or from a pocket and was in fashion at various times in history for both women and men. It continues to be highly desirable for antique jewelry collectors, now worn as a brooch or from a chain around the neck. 
 
From the chatelaine one can find several different items attached and dangling, such as keys, scissors, thimbles, watches, and decorative household seals. Châtelaines became very popular from the 17th to the early 20th century. The chatelaine was also used as a woman's keychain in the 19th century to show the status of women in wealthy households. The prolonged usefulness of the item caused it to appear in a myriad of different styles following fashion throughout the times. From as early as the Middle Ages, plain rings with chains eventually evolved into extremely detailed masterpieces. By the 1800s, châtelaines were also worn at balls, having hooks suspended from them to hold dance cards and fans. A spate of châtelaines in the 1878 Exhibition reflected their acceptance in formal wear. A typical lady’s châtelaine would suspend important keys, a timepiece, a notepad/dancecard and pencil, a mirror, purses, étui, pomanders, vinaigrettes, scissors or sewing implements, and other everyday essentials. 
 
MATERIAL:
Silver, Steel, Brass
 
AGE: 
1890 - 1914
 
CONDITION: 
Very good – surface wear commensurate with age and use
 
SIZE: 
Total length: 12 cm
 
WEIGHT:
106.9 g
 
Please read descriptions and inspect photos carefully, paying careful attention to size and weight. Due to the age of antique and vintage jewelry, minor abrasions and wear of finishes is normal and appreciated. All items have been tested to be in working/usable condition, unless otherwise stated. Please take care to understand safe cleaning methods for each type of gem and metal. Jewelry pieces are carefully wrapped and shipped in an elegant black box. Antique boxes in photos are for illustrative purposes only.