This Breton broach, widespread in the Lesneven region, is a part of a collection donated by the folklorist Lionel Bonnemère (1843 – 1905). It is beaded concentrically over all of its surface with a central black stone. This broach would be used to close a man’s shirt or a woman’s shawl. Other Briton broaches are heart-shaped or in the shape of a safety pin and are covered with strands of red or purple wool, which Bonnemère calls “Solferino.” These broaches are marvels of simplicity and were sometimes made by the Briton farmers themselves.

Date of Production: 19th century

Place of Design: Bretagne, France

Zinc, brass, glass beads

Access number: inv. 1901.1.441

Size: 3.5 cm diameter

Museum: Mucem