I'm reading a history book written by Aline Taylor titled Isabel of Burgundy: The Duchess Who Played Politics in the Age of Joan of Arc. Isabel was born in 1397 and died in 1471. This painting of Isabel, at age 50, was painted by Rogier van der Weyden and is reproduced on the book’s jacket cover. When this portrait was painted, Isabel was the wife of Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy. The Burgundian court was opulent, extravagant, and very wealthy.

When I first picked up this book and looked at the painting, I immediately noticed Isabel’s necklace. Doesn’t this look like a style we’re wearing today?  It just shows how much designers reference historical styles.

A description of women’s jewelry from the Gothic period notes, “Necklaces and pendants were popular ornaments worn by women as the neckline began to fall during the second half of the 15th century, despite laws forbidding the showing of the neck and shoulders.” (Quoted from a paper about Gothic period jewelry written by Michelle M. Boullianne.)

If you’re interested in creating jewelry inspired by 19th and 20th century fashions, check out VintageStyle Jewelry a Bead&Button special issue. Perhaps the beadwork you create will be immortalized in a photo or painting like Isabel’s and document for future jewelry makers what we were wearing in the 21st century.