Buckle 1900 - 1924

This ornate buckle was crafted by Theodore B. Starr, a prominent figure in the late 19th-century American jewelry scene. In an era defined by the Gilded Age, Starr's work embodies the opulence and the intricate craftsmanship prized by the upper classes. The buckle’s design, with its swirling motifs and mythical creature, echoes the period’s fascination with classical and Renaissance aesthetics. Reflecting the era’s social hierarchies, such an accessory would have been a marker of status, signaling wealth and taste. But beyond its material value, consider the personal dimension—the wearer making a statement about their identity through fashion. Accessories like this buckle are fascinating because they often negotiate traditional representations of gender, class, and power. They offer an intimate glimpse into the aspirations and self-perception of individuals navigating a rapidly changing society.