This is an Art Deco (1920s- 1930s) curved faux tortoiseshell barrette/hair slide.
Made in France from celluloid (an early plastic)it is by the brand Blackbird. Auguste Bonaz a French jewellery and hair accessory designer is known to have designed for Blackbird. It is possibly one of his designs. However this piece is not signed by him.
Adverts from the era can be seen in the images above and some info on the designer is included below.
The slide has pierced work and is studded with diamante/paste crystals. One or two have become dull with age, but none are missing.
It is signed 'Depose' and 'Blackbird' on the clip at the back.
The slide is in good vintage condition and the clasp remains firm.
Measurements
Length 9cm note the clip extends 1cm beyond this.
Height (at the centre) 3.5cms
Auguste Bonaz was a sought after designer in the early 20th century and remains collectable today. The factory was founded at the end of the 19th century. Early work used horn, and then the invention of CELLULOID opened up new creative and production possibilities. Auguste did his apprenticeship in the workshop of his father, César taking over its management in 1900, with the assistance of his wife, Marguerite. He was mobilized in the 1914/18 war, during which time his wife ran the firm.
The craft production of ornamental combs, highly fashionable at that time, developed rapidly with the discovery of new materials, namely CELLULOID and GALALITH. In 1922, following the death of Auguste BONAZ, his wife, Marguerite, took over the management of the factory, continuing the production of combs, but also creating GALALITH jewellery, including the necklaces, earrings, brooches, and bracelets typical of the thirties, as well as magnificent small galalith boxes.
Marguerite BONAZ died in 1927.
