Art Nouveau Silver Belt, Nathan & Hayes, 1898

Name: Art Nouveau Silver Belt, Nathan & Hayes, 1898
SKU: as1006a322
Price: 250.00 GBP
Availability: SoldOut

Photos

Contact SellerBurnell And Rowe ▼

Here we have a stunning late Victorian Art Nouveau Sterling Silver ladies' belt. The belt is made by renowned silversmiths Nathan & Hayes and is assayed in Chester in 1898. George Nathan & Ridley Hayes were in business together in Birmingham between 1889 and 1915 but, like many Birmingham silversmiths, they often had work assayed in the less busy assay office in Chester.

The belt is absolutely classic Art Nouveau, with its sinuous, organic, intertwining foliage and mysterious faces peering out of the panels. The two large panels that form the clasp have a "Green Man" type of face above tropical birds, flowers and foliage. The smaller panels that form the main length of the belt have a different bearded face sitting in the middle of foliage beneath what appears to be a full moon. The links between the panels are further adorned with flowers and foliage. It is an extraordinary item that would look simply exquisite as part of an outfit today and would certainly be a talking point.

Condition is extremely good with no damage to the panels, links or clasp and only the most superficial surface wear. It seems likely that this was only rarely worn. Please make sure to view all the photographs.

Belts such as this are more commonly found in silver plate, so it is a real luxury to find one in solid silver. This would have been a very high class accessory for a lady on the cutting edge of fashion in the late 19th century. It really is a rare and special item.

The belt is 67.8cm / 26.5" long and weighs a very substantial 166g / 5.85oz of solid Sterling Silver.

The principal set of hallmarks are on the large panels that form the clasp and these are shown in the photograph. They are well struck and clear to read. The show the lion passant for Sterling Silver, the sword and three wheatsheaves assay mark for Chester, the date letter "P" for 1898 and the N & H makers' mark for Nathan & Hayes. In addition, every panel is marked with the lion passant, date letter "P" and N & H makers' mark, so that you can be assured the whole belt is solid silver.

Shipping in the UK is £10 by Royal Mail Special Delivery Parcel Post, which includes cover for the value of the belt.
Overseas customers please ask us about shipping costs to your country before making a purchase.

Price

£~~250.00~~

$~~324.53~~ USA

€~~297.73~~

The price has been listed in British Pounds.
Conversion rates as of 4/NOV/2024. Euro & Dollar prices will vary and should only be used as a guide.
Always confirm final price with dealer.