Chatelaine Early 18th Century

Luxurious lady's chatelaine in gilt bronze in the Regency style, from the early 18th century. Beautiful cut metalwork, pierced and finely engraved. A large pediment clasp supports four side chains as well as a fifth, wider central attachment. The upper part (intended to be attached to the waist) shows a superb decoration of two opposing snakes eating their tails, protective symbols of eternity and longevity, they frame a rich floral decoration with a sunflower in the center, a symbol of life and radiance, very popular in particular during the reign of Louis XIV. The lower part is composed of five attachment systems, each ending with a closed, pivoting hook and fitted with rings engraved with leaf friezes. The central hook, generally used to hang a watch, is fitted with four plates decorated with flowers, foliage and intertwined dolphins, joined by metal rings. The whole is gilded with fine gold, very little wear, just on the flat of the hook back. A beautiful collector's item with very good provenance. Note: The central part pivots on a ruler, thus adjusting to the movements of the garment. Delivery: €15 for mainland France.