Mantis Clips, Silver Cape

Silver cape or coat buckles or clasps from the 19th century. Made in stamped silver. Central motif of a flowered basket, surrounded by a C-shaped arabesque, bordered by a row of pearls and finished around the edge with radiating ovates. Three rings soldered with silver for each of the “shells” allowed them to be sewn directly onto the garment, then a hook and a ring to attach them together. Illegible hallmarks including a diamond for the goldsmith-manufacturer. Weight: 0.18 grams. Between 1840-1850 and 1920, we note a very wide variety of staples: in a basket surrounded by a garland, gadroons, pearls, palmettes, sheaves, decorated with a large central flower, openwork or not, interlacing, geometric or vegetal decorations, joined hands, shells, lion paws, etc. However, it should be noted that since the beginning of the 19th century, goldsmiths have manufactured practically identical models throughout the north and west of France, from Paris to Angouleme. The clasp is the only decorative element (or the little touch of madness, if you like!) on the coats, which are always very simple and dark in color, without any particular ornament. Internet source, site: yesterday's object by Sophie Sesmat. Delivery: €10 for mainland France.