Brooch c. 1936

Here we see a delicate brooch design rendered on paper by William P. Shearwood, an artist born in the late 19th century. During Shearwood's time, jewelry functioned as a potent signifier of identity and social status, particularly for women. These brooches, with their intricate metalwork and vibrant amethyst stones, speak to the Victorian and Edwardian eras' fascination with ornamentation and the symbolic power of gems. Amethyst, often associated with royalty and piety, was a popular choice, reflecting the values and aspirations of the wearer. Consider the emotional weight of adornment. How might wearing such a piece shape a woman’s self-perception or project a certain image to the world? Shearwood’s design, while beautiful, also hints at the constraints placed upon women, whose identities were often closely tied to their appearance and material possessions. This design encourages us to reflect on the complex relationship between personal expression, social expectations, and the quiet language of adornment.