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• WHAT

  • Lalique was influenced by Japanese Symbolism. In Japanese culture, the dragonfly is a symbol for life being short, but beautiful.
  • The highly detailed cut out metalwork seen on Japanese objects like Tsuba (swords) was a huge inspiration to Art Nouveau designers.
  • Nesuke (small carved objects made out of tortoiseshell, ivory and pottery) were masterpieces of Japanese miniature design.
• WHERE

  • Natural forms taken from a dragonfly body and wings in the Brooch, in the cut out detailing of the wings and in the intricate carving of the female bust, Griffin claws and dragonfly tail.
• WHY

  • Japanese Art and Design had gained great popularity in Europe at that time, due to the fact that trade had newly reopened between Japan and the Western world.
  • This brought Eastern art to viewers who had never seen it before, and many were keen to own items containing its influence.