Antique 1880s Victorian sterling wide cuff bracelet with buckle or garter motif

A late 19th century sterling silver hinged bracelet with an incredible buckle motif! This style of substantial silver bracelet - almost always uniform in width and highly decorative - is typical of the Late Victorian period. A wide range of design themes are possible within the style, including abstract, aesthetic, and even trompe l'oeil! This bracelet falls into the last category, with a wonderfully articulated faux buckle across the face. Buckle motif bracelets and rings became popular during the Victorian Era when Queen Victoria chose to wear her Order of the Garter garter (belt) around her arm where it could be seen instead around her leg, where it was traditionally worn by men. Seeing the queen wear buckle armlets and rings started a trend in garter or buckle jewelry!

The buckle is complete with frame, bar and prong and it even has a little wave to the strap, giving the illusion of a flexible material. The buckle is engraved with an impressive checkerboard and cross hatch pattern with spherical trims. The underlying engraving on the bracelet itself is morning glories! Hinges open to a plain reverse. Closes with a nice "snap." Full British hallmarks.

Measurements: 3/4" wide, interior dimensions 2 3/8" x 2", 30.5 grams
Era: 1880s (1884)
Markings: British hallmarks as pictured (date letter "k" for 1884).