This is a stunning example of English art nouveau silver. A beautiful smiling lady surrounded by her flowing hair which is entertwined with a leaf or two to represent nature. The outer edge is wavy and not a true circle, all in keeping with Art Nouveau style. The button bears the Hallmarks for the Birmingham Assay Office - an anchor, a lion to show it is sterling silver and the letter 'c' for the year 1902. There is also the makers mark - W & Co. - I believe this may be for Williams Brothers, a well-know Birmingham manufacturer of good quality buttons, buckles and other decorative small pieces of silver. The marks are all on the front decorative surface of the button, a practice which was common at the time this piece was made in the early part of the 20th Century. Measuring a little over 2 cms in diameter, the button has a self shank, which means the loop on the back is also silver. This loop is large enough for a safety pin to be placed through it from the reverse to enable the button to be worn as a brooch. The button is in excellent Antique order with just the smallest of surface scratches but a very well defined casting. I have 5 of these buttons available for sale so if you need that number to sew on to a jacket or blouse that could be possible. Please note that the price given here is for one button only.
