Own a piece of fashion history with this magnificent Butler & Wilson Harlequin Pierrot brooch, from the iconic era celebrated during Butler & Wilson's major 21st anniversary retrospective exhibition at Harrods in 1989.
The statement brooch features an Art Deco-inspired Harlequin or Pierrot clown swinging on a crescent moon, crafted with a mix of brilliant clear and contrasting black crystals set in a silvertone base.The dangling rhinestone legs are articulated, giving the piece a wonderful, fluid movement when worn.
The Harlequin and Pierrot figures that appeared in some of Butler & Wilson's 1980s collections drew inspiration from theatre, masquerade, and the Commedia dell'Arte. This brooch belongs to the same imaginative design period that produced the brand's sought-after Art Deco-inspired face brooches and other theatrical figural pieces of the era. Its romantic, theatrical character reflects the Art Deco influences long associated with Simon Wilson, who dealt in original Art Deco jewellery and objects before founding Butler & Wilson with Nicky Butler. Seated upon a crescent moon, the Harlequin evokes the world of stage costume, performance, and fantasy that inspired some of the brand's most distinctive early designs.
Dimensions:10.5 cm x 7.5 cm | 4 ¼" x 3" approximately
Condition and Maker's Mark:
The brooch is stamped Butler & Wilson in a circular cartouche on the reverse and is in excellent vintage condition. All the crystals are intact, bright, and full of sparkle. The pin mechanism and rollover clasp are completely secure, and the articulated legs move smoothly. The brooch comes in its black and gold Butler & Wilson crowned gift box as pictured. The underside of the box retains a Sphinx manufacturer's label, numbered 322833.
Provenance:
 Acquired from the collection of a dedicated Butler & Wilson collector, who collected for pure joy but rarely wore her pieces.
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