This is a wonderful and well-loved Art Nouveau American Chatelaine, circa 1890.
Chatelaine, or “the keeper of the keys”, is named for its functionality.
Sewing chatelaines are still popular with seamstresses and quilters
In Victorian society, the Chatelaine was a status symbol the one offered here would have been in the possession of a woman of means.
Crafted from brass and plated in silver, the piece features a foliate pin with a C-Clasp pin back and four chains.
From the chains dangle a perfume bottle, a chain mail coin purse, a mirror, and needle case with an attached pencil.
This chatelaine, at approximately 130 years of age, is in very good vintage condition, with signs of wear consistent with age.
The chatelaine hangs just under 9” from the pin, with varying chain lengths.
The pin is about 2.5” wide.
The piece weighs just over 90 grams and has a pleasing jangle when the pieces meet.
Wear the chatelaine as intended, pinned to your waist, or hang it on a chain for dramatic effects.
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