Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Mastery of Design: The Ashbee Turquoise Necklace, 1903


Necklace by C.R. Ashbee
1903
The Victoria & Albert Museum




C. R. Ashbee, as we have already discussed, was a man known for his enormous talents and energy and, also, as a defining figure in the Arts and Crafts Movement. In 1888, Ashbee founded the “Guild of Handicraft” in the East End of London.  His plan was to revive traditional craft skills and provide satisfying employment to a deprived area of the city.

Like many jewelers of the era, Ashbee trained originally as an architect.  Today, his designs are praised and he is known for his highly innovative furniture, metalwork, silver and jewelry designs.

This necklace of gold and silver, designed by Ashbee in 1903, is set with cabochon turquoises.  The stones demonstrate a deliberate lack of uniformity which nicely reflects Ashbee's appreciation for natural, uncut gems. The finished piece was originally hung with chains and pendants which were also made by the Guild of Handicraft.











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