An 18-carat gold brooch in the shape of a heron on a sphere of lapis lazuli, by Leopold van Strydonck, Belgium c. 1900.

The bird has spread wings decorated with rose cut diamonds set in silver. In the Art Nouveau period, symbolism played a significant role. The heron symbolises wisdom and patience.

Lit: Jugendstilschmuck in Europe by Rolende van Strydonck de Burkel, p. 28 and p. 57.