Created in 1897, this highly important René Lalique Art Nouveau iris bracelet is composed of 18K gold, shaped opals, and enamel. It is formed of five large links of high relief, each designed as a basse taille enamel iris in shades of purple and violet, with varying subtle green and blue undertones, variously framed by opal panels and negative spaces, within flowing and sinuous surrounds of chased and engraved gold leaves. A fusion of French sensibility and masterful technique with the transformative influence of Japanese art, this beautiful work is one of Lalique's first jewels to act as a powerful conduit of Art Nouveau ideas.
