Prepare to turn heads with this breathtaking, magnificent showstopper - a definitive crown jewel of British costume fashion history dating from the late 1980s.
This wearable piece of art has an impeccable pedigree. First introduced by Butler & Wilson in 1972, this legendary reptile design famously graced the pages of Harper's & Queen (now Harper's Bazaar) that same year. Its enduring prestige is cemented in print, immortalised in Vivienne Becker’s seminal 1990 publication, 'Rough Diamonds: The Butler & Wilson Collection', as well as the brand's milestone 40th Anniversary Book in 2009.
Engineering meets high fashion in its fully articulated, jointed body, meticulously designed to flex, drape, and curve with exquisite elegance across a shoulder, lapel, or collarbone. It is completely encrusted with rows of sparkling pavé-set Swarovski crystals that catch the light from every angle. The head features dramatic, step-cut baguette crystal detailing, perfectly anchored by piercing, bold black faceted crystal eyes.
The craftsmanship is superb; constructed with individual linked cup settings for seamless fluidity, it is fitted with two secure rollover clasps on the reverse to perfectly support its weight and form when worn.
Dimensions: Length: 19 cm (approx. 7.5 inches)
Marked with the early round raised 'Butler & Wilson' medallion backstamp on the reverse side.
Provenance: Acquired from a single collection belonging to a lady who collected Butler & Wilson jewels for their sheer beauty, but rarely wore the pieces. This piece has been flawlessly preserved and has seldom been worn, if at all. It is in excellent vintage condition with every single crystal remaining perfectly intact and radiant; both clasps are fully functional, and it shows virtually no sign of wear.
Complete with its iconic Butler & Wilson presentation box, it is ready to be worn, gifted, or proudly paraded down the red carpet.
