Buckle 1900 - 1924

This small buckle was made in the US by Theodore B. Starr out of gold. It feels like a peek into another world, doesn't it? The ornate design, swirling with leaves and fantastical creatures, makes me think about the physical labor involved in creating something so delicate. I bet the artist had to make lots of decisions and change direction as they were working on this. There's a lot of texture, light, and shadow that plays across the surface. I like how the artist used the gold to create a sense of depth and movement. All these tiny details create a rich, visual experience. Looking at this piece, I’m reminded of Art Nouveau designers like Lalique, who also embraced organic forms. This kind of work invites us to slow down, to notice the small, beautiful things that might otherwise go unnoticed.