RENÉ LALIQUE (1860-1945)

This piece exemplifies in many ways the virtuosity of the style and the innovations of René Lalique. The theme of the serpent is recurrent in the work of René Lalique. Here the reptile is represented in an impressive attack position, jaws wide open and tongue retracted ready to sting, reminiscent of the legendary pectoral designed for Calouste Gulbekian, circa 1898-1899. Its biomorphic shape is also ideal to frame objects and showcase the sophistication of the work in silver or enamels. René Lalique used the motif of snake in the design of a headdress, never executed, for the actress Sarah Bernhardt as Theodora in the drama by Victorien Sardou.

The symbolism that gripped the 19th century makes this ambiguous figure of the serpent an ideal representative of femininity in all its glory. René Lalique was also known for his innovative use of materials such as horn and amethyst, which are common today but an absolute novelty in the artist’s time.