Item 26-236

These are fascinating examples of French antique passementerie ornaments, specifically what are often called cannetille or bullion-wire trimmings. They are hand-made decorative elements measuring approximately 6.5cm long and 3.5cm wide that would have been applied to clothing, ecclesiastical textiles, military dress, or luxury furnishings.

These are exactly the sort of fragments that many collectors of French haberdashery and costume treasure. Even detached from their original garment, they are miniature examples of the extraordinary decorative arts industry that flourished in France during the Belle Époque. Their sculptural quality and hand-worked metal construction make them attractive display pieces alongside antique lace, beadwork, silk flowers, and sewing ephemera.

• Fine coiled metal wire (called cannetille) wrapped in grey silk. 

• Wrapped metal strips formed into loops, petals, and scrolls.

• Hand-twisted cords forming the central structure.

Each loop is made from a hollow spiral of metal wire rather than solid cast metal, which is characteristic of traditional passementerie techniques.

Based on the construction and style, we would estimate they are aged in the late 19th century to early 20th century (c. 1880–1920). 

This was a period when France remained a major centre for luxury trimming manufacture, particularly in Paris, Lyon, and Saint-Étienne.