French Art Nouveau “a flight of diamond swallow” brooch c.1890

This is a flight of diamond swallow brooch of French origin, dating back to the Art Nouveau era circa 1890, crafted entirely in 18k solid gold and partially plated with silver.

Swallows hold various positive connotations in both Eastern and Western cultures. Their return from warmer southern regions to their northern nests in spring symbolizes hope and renewal, as well as the enduring image of loyalty and affection, making them frequent subjects in Chinese literature. Additionally, their habit of nesting on cliffs, and the flocking behavior of coastal swallows aiding sailors with navigation, symbolize the hope for safe return home, hence the expression "wishing travelers a safe return."

The brooch features a depiction of swallows in flight, with a simple yet vivid portrayal of their flock. The beaks and rounded heads are finely detailed, while the tail feathers and wingtips exhibit strong, feathered lines, maintaining the graceful streamlined form of the swallows. The top is adorned with hand-cut diamond decorations. The silver plating on the gold base enhances the brilliance of the diamonds. Moreover, there is another clever detail in the composition of the flock of swallows: there are a total of seven birds. In Western countries, the number "7" is considered highly auspicious due to religious significance, adding more blessings of good fortune to this piece.

The piece is in good antique condition, showing normal oxidation and signs of wear. As the assessment of condition can be subjective, please click and enlarge our photos to examine more details for judgment.