Dragonfly brooch

Question 1

Functionality

Answer 1

• large, awkward to wear
• hinges in four places, tail bends, allows it to move with the body, flexible and adjustable.
• Protruding nature of wings means can be damaged or broken easily, might catch on clothes, hair etc.
• considered aesthetic > wearabiliity

Question 2

Aesthetics/style`

Answer 2

-Symmetrical creates visual balance. Line of symmetry formed between sweeping shape of wings leads eye through center of design.
- Art Nouveau style is evident through subject matter, morphed female form with natural elements. Flowing lines, muted colours and round shapes.
- Line and pattern of wings creates realism and detail

Question 3

Materials/Techniques

Answer 3

Pique-a-jour enamelling fills intricate lines of the wings, stained glass effect mimics transparency of dragonfly, creates realism.
- Head made from semi-precious apple-green stone, chrysoprase, an opaque colour which creates realistic form.
- Use of gold filigree wire creates pattern and texture, conveys delicate structure and detail of wings.

Question 4

Target Market

Answer 4

• Appealed to women of the time who wanted to keep up with the Art Nouveau style.
• Designed for Sarah Bernhardt. Created as statement piece for the actress, reflected by its size and use of gold, precious stones and enamelling.
• Collectors who prefer to display rather than wear (aesthetic > functionality) as it reflects the Art Nouveau style.

Question 5

Line

Answer 5

• Intricate line on the wings creates detail/visual interest, conveys realism
• Flowing lines creates movement which guides eye through the piece

Question 6

Colour

Answer 6

• Limited colour palette creates visual continuity as repetition of colours occurs.
• Contrasting shades of blue/turquoise with black and gold allows white of diamonds to stand out and grab attention

Question 7

Tone

Answer 7

• Use of gold in claws and use of chyrsoprase on head and torso allows low relief form and visual tonal areas, conveys realism of the woman.
• Reflective materials such as gold and enamel means light catches on certain areas of the brooch, creating tonal contrast.

Question 8

Texture

Answer 8

• Various surface textures of different materials such as enamel, precious stones and gold create visual interest and realism.

Question 9

Shape

Answer 9

• Sweeping curved symmetrical shape of wings leads eye up to vertical shape of body, visual continuity and guides us around the design, sense of depth.

Question 10

Pattern

Answer 10

• Wings pattern creates realism and detail. Repeating this on the other side achieves unity and balance.
• Contrast in solid colours of bust and claws with wings and tail allow for several contrasting points of interest.