Today very rare, this piece was acquired by the Museum for its spectacular 'Australian flora in applied art ' exhibition of approximately 200 decorative arts objects both Australian made and commissioned overseas, predominantly in England, for the Australian market. The exhibition opened in 1906 and continued, with new objects being added throughout its duration, until the 1930s. This exhibition travelled to San Francisco as the Australian entrant in the Pacific International Exposition of 1915. As well as depicting Australian native flowers, it is a striking example of the Art Nouveau style which enjoyed great popularity in Australia.

This belt buckle was made by Deakin and Francis in Birmingham, England in 1909-1910. The case was made by the retailer J M Dempster Ltd of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia about 1910.

Silver gilt belt buckle bears two limoges enamelled waratahs on blue, baisse-taille enamelled ground in Art Nouveau style openwork. Gilt base has buckle, belt holding facility.

Rectangular box with hinged lid made of brown leather, interior lined with cream fabric.

Made: Deakin and Francis; Birmingham, England; 1909 - 1910

A1227

1909 - 1910

53 mm

84 mm

7 mm