Mastery of Design: The Alfred Gilbert Glass Pendant, 1890-1910

Pendant of Wire and Glass
Sir Arthur Gilbert
The Victoria & Albert Museum

Sir Alfred Gilbert (1854-1934) is embedded in history as one of Britain's most prominent sculptors of the turn of the Twentieth Century. He is best known for his celebrated public figure of Eros in Piccadilly circus, London. Eros is made of aluminum, demonstrating Gilbert's interest in experimenting with metal, an interest which led him to make some lovely pieces of jewelry which he would proudly present to friends and family.

Though he mostly hand-made casual pieces very quickly, Gilbert did occasionally create formal jewels, which showcased his charming and peculiar style in precious materials.

Here, we see one of Gilbert’s less formal jewels.  This pendant of iron wire is set with glass.  It was made between 1890 and 1910.