Tie-back c. 1937

Grace Halpin created this design of a Tie-back sometime between the late 19th and early 20th century. The central motif is a stylized flower, rendered in shimmering gold tones. This image is rich with symbolism that spans across cultures and history. The rosette, the circular floral design, is a symbol that echoes through time, from the ancient Near East to the Gothic cathedrals of Europe. It often represents the sun, life, and cosmic order. In Halpin's design, the flower's radiant symmetry evokes a sense of harmony and balance, speaking to our primal attraction to patterns and natural forms. Consider how the rosette appears in various forms throughout history, from the center of a shield in ancient warfare, to the gilded decorations of Renaissance palaces. Each time, it resurfaces, carrying echoes of its past meanings. The emotional resonance of the rosette as a symbol is a testament to the enduring power of archetypes in our collective psyche. The design serves as a reminder that the images of the past persist, shape our present, and continue to evolve in the theater of human consciousness.