Bracelet

This silver and crystal cuff bracelet is a classic example of the work of Mary Gage, a later and somewhat lesser-known jeweler of the Arts & Crafts movement, whose designs were largely inspired by nature. The applied lily pads seen here are one of her favorite and most recognizable motifs, as is the wirework on the bracelet’s interior. Made of sterling silver, her jewelry often includes semi-precious stones such as moonstones, rock crystal, turquoise, lapis, or carnelian. Gage, who was born in Decatur, Indiana in 1898, has been described as an eccentric character. She learned silversmithing in the 1920s after traveling the world, then set up business in New York City. In her SoHo workshop she created silver jewelry that was sold in uptown shops and at exhibitions throughout the country. In the 1950 she moved to Maine, where she worked as a silversmith, antiques, and used book dealer, and poodle breeder.