Earring in Chinoiserie Style
Earring in Chinoiserie Style
Place of OriginEngland
Dateabout 1820
DimensionsL: 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm)
MediumSilver, gold, diamonds, pearlls and rubies
ClassificationJewelry
Credit LineMr. and Mrs. George M. Jones, Jr. Fund
Object number
2000.24B
On View
Toledo Museum of Art (2445 Monroe Street), Gallery, 34, Jewelry Gallery
Collections
Label TextThe appeal of long earrings was prompted by the dress and hairstyles of the English Regency period, when the Prince Regent, George IV, ruled (1811–1820). The exotic birds and pagoda-shaped elements of these earrings reflect the period’s romantic taste for the Far East, known as chinoiserie (sheen-WAH-zer-ee). Pierced earrings were a sign of maturity. The first pair of earrings was usually given to a young girl in England at age 16, when simple ‘top-and-drop’ pearl earrings were considered to be more appropriate for a young, unmarried girl. These stunning pagoda earrings, an entirely Western invention, would have been worn on formal occasions by a fashion-conscious, mature woman. When wearing diamond jewelry at this time, it was recommended that a lady should apply rouge to her face to highlight the sparkling jewels.- Decorative Arts
1800/1900
Membership
Become a TMA member today
Support TMA
Help support the TMA mission