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When I first set eyes on the
painting of Eleonora of Austria (1498 - 1558) by Joos van
Cleve (1485 - 1540/1541) (c. 1530), I knew that it was only
a matter of time before I had to design a necklace inspired
by her beautiful pearl and gemstone garland (a large
necklace that could be worn around the neck or waist)
depicted in the painting.
This lovely painting shows the
Queen consort wearing a brocade bodice with ermine and
ruched fabric sleeves. The sleeves appear to be tied onto
the bodice with cream-colored ties that have set gemstones
sewn over the ties. The top edges of the bodice have a track
of set gemstones and pearls to add to the opulence of the
gown.
Eleonora is wearing a
beautiful small tiara of set stones and pearls that ends
over the ears with a large medallion-shape bezeled gemstone
and a huge pearl drop. But it is the garland that first
attracted my attention, as it looks beaded! Alternating
bezeled gemstones and pearls, divided by some form of a
chain, left me in wonder. Very intriguing!
My inspiration, Pearl
Garland for Queen Eleonora, has three different medallions
styles that link together using small circular links. The
combination of pearls, seed beads and a fun new bead shape,
makes this design intriguing in its construction and lovely
to wear. The necklace ends in two beaded buttons and a
connector loop, to keep the focal component centered. A
beautiful necklace fit for a Queen! |
