Art Deco Orientalist Bakelite Brooch, c. 1920–1930s.

RARE FIND — Art Deco Orientalist Bakelite Brooch, c. 1920–1930s.

Feast your eyes on this spectacular and oversized Art Deco brooch, lavishly crafted in the 1920/30s and dripping with Orientalist elegance. This sculptural showpiece is carved from sumptuous apple-green Bakelite, a beloved early plastic prized by collectors for its durability, weighty feel, and rich coloration.

The elongated oval form is crowned at both ends by stylised caramel “cloud scrolls”—an unmistakable nod to Chinese and Japanese decorative motifs popular during the Art Deco craze. These cloud formations are beautifully hand-carved and shaded, adding tactile depth and a luxe two-tone contrast.

Across the centre, delicate linear inlays of sparkling clear rhinestones create a glamorous Deco rhythm.

Their placement evokes the precision and geometry that defined the era, offering a bold dialogue between symmetry and organic form.

A desirable oversized format, this jewel spans generously across the chest—impactful yet refined. It closes with its original pinback, and the Bakelite reveals that unmistakable warm, buttery glow when held up to the light.

Pieces of this quality, scale, and imagination are rarely seen outside serious Bakelite collections. Comparable examples—especially those with Orientalist motifs—have fetched notable high prices on the global vintage market, often climbing into impressive territory due to their scarcity and desirability.

Similar brooches are priced at $250 (R4000) and higher.

Measurements : The brooch measures 10cm x 4.4cm and weight of 10 grams.