18th century garnet aigrette

An exceptional example of a garnet aigrette, circa 1760. The elaborate powdered wigs of the 18th century encouraged a fashion for sumptuous bejewelled hair ornaments. An aigrette was an ornament worn on a wig in the hair, or with the addition of a brooch fitting, as a bodice ornament. This aigrette is unusually 18 carat gold rather than silver or silver gilt, set with vibrant flat-cut garnets over rose-pink foil in closed back settings. The form is of feathers emerging from a bow-ribbon. It has a gold pin and is designed to be worn on a wig or as a bodice ornament. It measures 3.5 inches by 1.5 inches and is dazzling and immaculate.

sold
Item ref : HB8

aigrette designs in the V and A below

Portrait of Mrs Andrew Lindington by Wright of Derby (c.1761/62) wearing a garnet aigrette