Hairpin
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Lamp-worked glass, gilt, with copper pins
Dimensions
L. 12.9 cm; diam. of ball 1.6 cm
Classification
Jewelry, Precious Metals and Precious Stones
Culture
probably Italian (Venice); possibly Innsbruck
Department
Robert Lehman Collection
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Robert Lehman Collection, 1975
Accession Number
1975.1.1527
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Robert Lehman Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, exquisite 19th-century hairpin the artistry of lamp-worked glass a technique where molten glass is meticulously shaped over a flame. Measuring 12.9 cm in length with a delicate 1.6 cm finial, the piece gleams with gilt accents and sturdy copper pins, blending functionality with ornamental splendor. Its intricate glasswork—likely forming colorful beads or floral motifs—demonstrates the virtuoso skill of anonymous artisans who could mimic gems and metals with humble materials. Probably crafted in Venice, Italy's glassmak...