# 'Serpents' corsage ornament [View the canonical artwork record]() ## Artwork - Artist: [LALIQUE, René]() - Date: 1851-1900 - Technique: Gold and enamel, 21 x 14 cm ## Commentary This corsage ornament is one of the paradigms of René Lalique's jewellery production, not only for the mastery of its execution, as for the theme chosen. Reptiles were a source of inspiration to which Lalique returned throughout his life not only for jewellery but also for his glass, bronzes, etc. The corsage ornament is made up of nine serpents entwined to form a knot from which the bodies of the other eight fall in a cascade, the ninth rising in the centre, at the top of the jewel. From the open mouths of the reptiles in the attack position strings of pearls were hung. The present piece is probably the only one in existence. ## Related artworks - [Anemone]() - [Brooch in the shape of a fool's head]() - ['Cockerel' diadem]() - [Interior view]() - [Lily of the Valley Comb]() - [Necklace]() - [Tiger Necklace]() - [Tray]() ## Attribution [Web Gallery of Art]()