This is a large glowing handmade enamel brooch of 2 red poppies on a deep burgundy background by the renowned Limoges, France enamellist Nicolas Bardonnaud. The extraordinary three-dimensional technique seems to be lit from within. 
The setting is a unique design typical of the era in sterling silver. 
It is signed on the back. Truly one of a kind. 
Trombone clasp. 
 
Symbolically, poppies have been popular for jewelry since the times of ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. Simply, the flowers represent peace, rest, sleep, eternal sleep, resurrection, and consolation. The flower was used in Egyptian burial tombs, the Greeks used the flower in the shrines of Demeter and Diana (goddesses of the hunt and fertility, respectively) and most recently, its use for wartime remembrance has made it a popular symbol around the world.
 
MATERIALS
Enamel, Silver 
 
AGE
c. 1900 – 1920
 
CONDITION
Very good – surface wear commensurate with age and use
 
SIZE 
5.5 cm diametre
 
WEIGHT
18.13 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. Jewelry pieces are carefully wrapped and shipped in an elegant black box. Antique boxes in photos are for illustrative purposes only.