A truly exceptional and highly elusive example of Monet’s mid-century figural jewelry, this signed owl brooch ranks among the rarest and most unusual designs encountered from the celebrated American costume jewelry house. While Monet produced a variety of collectible figural pieces throughout its history—including butterflies, birds, florals, and insects—owl motifs appear to be extraordinarily scarce, with comparable examples proving remarkably difficult to locate.
Expertly crafted in richly textured gold-tone metal, the owl features striking green eyes and an intricate openwork wirework body that creates both movement and dimension. Perched upon a stylized branch, the design blends whimsy, artistry, and sophisticated mid-century styling into a piece that is instantly recognizable and undeniably memorable.
Its sculptural construction, commanding presence, and exceptional rarity place it in a category far beyond ordinary vintage costume jewelry. Whether acquired by a dedicated Monet collector, an owl enthusiast, or a lover of distinctive mid-century design, this brooch represents a seldom-seen opportunity to own one of the more elusive figural creations associated with the Monet name.
Details
- Monet signed
- Mid-century modern
- Figural owl brooch
- Wirework construction
- Gold-tone metal
- Green rhinestone or glass eyes
- Circa 1960s
This is not merely a vintage owl brooch — it is a collector’s jewel from one of Monet’s most imaginative creative periods.
Measurements:
Height: 2 1/4 inches
Width: Approximately 1 1/4 inches including ears
Signed: Monet
Era: 1961
Condition:
Excellent vintage condition with outstanding preservation throughout. Gold-tone finish remains beautifully rich with only minimal age-appropriate wear visible under close inspection. Emerald rhinestone eyes remain vibrant and intact. Spinner wire construction is secure and displays beautifully. A remarkably well-kept example for a highly collectible novelty design of this era.
Collector’s Note:
Among the thousands of Monet designs produced over the decades, owl examples are rarely encountered. Extensive research revealed numerous butterflies, birds, insects, and floral forms, yet comparable Monet owl brooches proved exceptionally difficult to locate, underscoring the uncommon nature of this remarkable piece.
Styling Note:
A spectacular statement pinned against black cashmere, velvet, structured tailoring, or layered within a curated jewelry display. Equally stunning worn as fashion or exhibited as collectible mid-century design.
