Fauna

A glittering collection of jewelry imitating animals from the nineteenth century to today

The animal kingdom has been a source of inspiration for jewelers since the days of antiquity. Chosen for their symbolism, beauty, or personality, a whole menagerie of creatures has been depicted in gemstones and precious metals, ranging from fantastical dragons, griffins, and sphinxes to wild beasts such as boars and big cats, to the delicate forms of birds, fish, and even insects.

The 130 pieces in this book have been specially selected from the magnificent jewelry collection of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris and include necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and brooches by legendary names such as Boucheron, Falize, and Lalique. They stretch from the Renaissance revival of the nineteenth century to the elegant lines of Art Nouveau and beyond, through to the playful naivety of modernist designs by Jean Lurçat and Line Vautrin.

Beautifully photographed by renowned photographer Jean-Marie del Moral, this second title in the series that began with Flora is packed with clever and witty works of art that will delight all lovers of jewelry and nature.

About the Author

Patrick Mauriès is an aficionado of private collections and cabinets of curiosities. He is the author of Cabinets of Curiosities, Fornasetti, and Jewelry by Chanel.

Evelyn Possémé chief curator at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in the Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and antique and modern jewelry department.