Dragonfly brooch 1885 - 1895

Edgar Bense’s "Dragonfly" brooch, crafted between 1885 and 1895, is a stunning example of Art Nouveau jewelry. The piece, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, features a delicate dragonfly rendered in gold, enamel, and diamonds. Bense's use of vibrant colors and natural motifs, particularly the dragonfly, captures the essence of the Art Nouveau style that emphasized organic forms and a connection to nature. The piece is both intricate and captivating, highlighting the beauty and skill of late 19th-century jewelry making.