A delightful Art Deco necklace, American celluloid and Bakelite dating to the 1930s, celebrating the tropical design movement that flourished during the period. Featuring alternating pineapples and palm leaves, this whimsical statement piece captures the playful optimism of the era while showcasing the ingenuity of early plastics.
The pineapples are beautifully moulded in rich yellow Bakelite with green celluloid crowns, finely detailed with simulated texture and veining. Alternating green celluloid palm leaves and moulded yellow celluloid links create a lightweight, articulated necklace with wonderful movement and visual appeal. The bold tropical motif reflects the fascination with exotic destinations that influenced American fashion and costume jewellery during the Art Deco period.
The necklace retains an aged bronze spring-ring clasp, an early replacement that functions perfectly and complements the piece. Presented in excellent vintage condition with a soft, even age patina.
Dimensions approx.: Overall length 48cm; pineapples 2.8cm high x 1.8cm wide x 0.9cm thick max.; palm leaves 3cm long x 3.3cm wide x 0.5cm thick; Celluloid chain links 0.8cm long x 0.4cm wide; total mass 26gm.
America. Circa 1930s.