Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Mastery of Design: The Dawson Iris Brooch, 1900

Click image to enlarge.
Brooch, 1900
Edith and Nelson Dawson
The Victoria & Albert Museum



We’ve examined the fine enameling work of celebrated early Twentieth Century jeweler Nelson Dawson (1859-1941) before. Dawson learned the art from the distinguished enameller Alexander Fisher and, later, taught the skill to his wife, Edith (1862-1928), a talented watercolor artist in her own right.

Edith would soon take over the enameling in their joint work. Together, they made their first showing in 1899 to much acclaim. Their work is typified by botanical themes and subtle colors. This brooch of painted enamel and silver depicts an iris and demonstrates their combined sensibilities. Made around 1900, Edith created the delicate central panel while Nelson designed the structure of the piece. 




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