Brooches and Badges

Brooches and badges have evolved from practical to decorative dress fasteners, expressing identity. The V&A's collection explores their evolution, influenced by changes in dress.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2019
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Brooches and badges have evolved from medieval pilgrim badges and Renaissance hat decorations to jewelled brooches and twentieth-century political pins. These intricate and versatile works of art are often more than practical or decorative dress fasteners; they are expressions of identity. Focusing on the V&A's world-famous collection, Brooches & Badges explores the evolution of these intricate and versatile works of art, and the way in which changes in dress have dictated their use.

Brooches and badges have a rich history, dating back to the Middle Ages when they were used as symbols of religious devotion and social status. During the Renaissance, they became more elaborate and decorative, often featuring precious stones and metals. In the 18th and 19th centuries, brooches and badges became popular among women as a way to express their fashion sense and personal style.

In the 20th century, brooches and badges took on a political significance, with many organizations and movements using them to promote their causes and ideologies. From the Suffragette movement to the Civil Rights movement, brooches and badges were used as a powerful tool for activism and social change.

Today, brooches and badges continue to be popular among fashion-conscious individuals as a way to add a touch of individuality to their outfits. They come in a wide range of styles, from classic and elegant to bold and quirky, and can be worn in a variety of ways, from pinning them to a scarf to wearing them as a statement piece.

The V&A's collection of brooches and badges is one of the most comprehensive in the world, featuring pieces from all over the globe and spanning centuries of history. The collection includes examples of medieval pilgrim badges, Renaissance hat decorations, jewelled brooches, and twentieth-century political pins. The exhibition also explores the way in which changes in dress have dictated the use of brooches and badges over time, from the tight-fitting corsets of the 16th century to the loose-fitting dresses of the 20th century.

One of the most striking features of the V&A's collection is the range of materials used to create brooches and badges. From precious metals such as gold and silver to more unconventional materials such as plastic and glass, the collection showcases the diversity and creativity of brooch and badge design.

Another notable aspect of the collection is the way in which brooches and badges have been used to express cultural identity. Many brooches and badges feature symbols and motifs that are specific to a particular culture or region, such as the Celtic knotwork or the Islamic calligraphy. These pieces can be used to celebrate cultural heritage and promote understanding between different communities.

In conclusion, brooches and badges are more than just practical or decorative dress fasteners; they are expressions of identity and cultural heritage. The V&A's collection of brooches and badges is a testament to the evolution of these intricate and versatile works of art, and the way in which they have been used to promote social change and celebrate cultural identity. Whether you are a fashion-conscious individual or a history enthusiast, the collection is sure to inspire and captivate you.

Weight: 626g
Dimension: 166 x 235 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500480359