RENE LALIQUE 

Lalique was born in France in 1860. In 1885, having learned his craft in Paris and London, he set up a workshop in Paris. During his early artistic career he concentrated mainly on jewellery-making, his wealthy clients including the legendary actress Sarah Bernhardt. He went on to win numerous awards at international fairs.

Lalique was one of the most accomplished designers of the Art Nouveau movement. Using nature for his inspiration, he produced some of the most stunning jewellery designs of the period. His exquisite hair combs, buckles, pendants, brooches, necklaces an tiaras are fashioned from combinations of gold, enamel, horn, glass, and a stunning array of gemstones. 

Lalique opened a glass workshop in 1909, and from then on he concentrated mainly on the production of fine art glass. He died in 1945.

The exquisite dragonfly brooch pictured here is a wonderful example of Lalique's work.