Brooch c. 1936

Florence Stevenson's drawing presents two views of a brooch on a pale background. The top view shows a symmetrical design, with rounded shapes branching out from a central linked circle, reminiscent of stylized leaves or wings. The lower view offers a profile, revealing the brooch's pin and the slight elevation of its elements. The use of a single colour flattens the image, emphasizing form over depth. This choice underscores the brooch's structure, highlighting the relationship between its components. Stevenson's rendering transforms the brooch into an exercise in pure form, inviting us to consider the underlying geometry and spatial relationships that define its presence. The brooch functions as a sign, pointing beyond its immediate aesthetic qualities. It suggests themes of connection, balance, and display. The brooch's design also draws on codes of beauty and status. It is up to us to consider how adornment can transform its appearance and the cultural values it can represent.