Four sets of Edmund Lhote art nouveau buttons

Edmond Lhote (1860-1915) is one of the more obscure French art nouveau jewellers from the turn of the last century.  Very little is known about him, save that occasionally odd pieces of his work have come to the market and been of outstanding quality in the classic style of Lalique. His work was exhibited in the Salon 1904 and, in the same year, the Societe des Artistes Decorateurs . Today his work forms part of the Collection of the Driehaus Museum, Chicago.    I believe Edmond may be related to the more famous Andre Lhote (1885-1962), the cubist artist and research is ongoing.

These buttons are all fully assayed with French marks for silver and carry Edmond’s EL mark.  They are silver and silver gilt, variously set with turquoise, opals and enamel.  The Japanese influence is very visible in the set of four circular water lily buttons.  Condition overall is very good with just the one almond set with flower enamels showing some losses.

The provenance of these buttons is impeccable.  They were acquired directly from auction where a collection of Edmond Lhote’s work was being sold by his descendants.

Price: Sold

Maker: Edmond Lhote

Designer: Edmond Lhote

Date: c. 1900

Marks: EL, French assay marks

Material: Sterling silver, other materials

Condition: Very good – see description

Size: Approx 2 – 3 cm square / diameter

Weight: All a good gauge