Necklace c. 1864

This necklace was created by Firma W. Vinke Larsen, using glass, metal, and organic material. The charm is a transparent glass orb, and inside, a four-leaf clover. The delicate leaves are a muted gold color, set against the clear glass. The pendant is suspended from a woven cord, attached with metal fixings. The artist took advantage of the reflective quality of glass, magnifying the clover within. In the making of the necklace, the artist has encased nature into an intimate object, creating a personal connection between the wearer and nature. The choice of material and process has imbued the artwork with themes of luck and protection. This piece asks us to reflect on what we value, and the connection between material, making, and meaning, blurring the lines between craft and fine art.