The Fashion for Egyptian Revival

Victorian Zoomorphic Jewellery; A Steampunk Perspective

Brooch made with gold and a taxidermy hummingbird head.

This is one of the less endearing fashion trends of the Victorian era; the use of animal parts to create jewellery. The collection of hummingbirds for their feathers and for taxidermy decoration put some species of hummingbird at risk at the height of the practice. The use of hummingbirds to create fashion accessories is now illegal, and that is okay with me. I find the idea of hunting down tiny birds for ornithological jewellery rather distasteful, as well as the use of other animal parts for ornamentation.

Ruby & topaz & gold hummingbird earrings (Photo by Gates Sofer)

 

Tiger Claw Parure 

Parure set consisting of tiara, earrings and necklace mounted with beetle wings, circa 1884.

Tortoiseshell hair comb, circa 1860

Whalebone pen

 

This is why I prefer modern Steampunk jewellery that uses resin models or metal casts of skulls for ornamentation. I find these items much less creepier and more ecologically sound than the Victorian version.

 

Victorian Era Treen Snuff Boxes in the Shape of Shoes

Shoe-shaped Snuff Boxes

Treen is the name given to small household items made from wood, rather than made from metal, ceramics or glass, and to differentiate the items from wooden furniture. As a big fan of shoes and boots, I love images of Victorian treen snuff boxes that mimic shoes. Here is a selection of images for your edification.

English snuff box circa 1860

Wooden shoe-shaped snuff boxes, England, circa 1801-1830

19th century walnut snuff box

Treen snuff box with bone decoration