Are these Shoeclips? Dating assistance?

[laurenm]

HI Everyone, just wondering what these are and 'when' these are?
Thanks for any guidance.
Lauren

 

[Circa Vintage Clothing]

Hi Lauren,

I think they might be scarf clips. Styles like these with pictorials were popular in the '60s but the backs suggest they might be earlier: perhaps they were buttons that have been adapted? Can you tell if the painted part is hand painted or printed, and if it's on porcelain, glass or another material?

Hopefully someone else can help you more.

 

[Linn]

I am pretty sure they are earrings, possibly French. They may not have started out as earrings but because the plate is covering the backs it's hard to tell if they were buttons first. They might be porcelain and it looks like the image is supposed to depict a 17th or 18C. courting couple. They are probably C. 1950s or C1960s but the buttons - if they were buttons could be earlier. Maybe someone else will know for sure. I do know this type of earring back is usually French.

I blew up the image and I don't think they are hand painted - probably a transfer but it's hard to tell from a photo.

What size are they?

Linn

 

[Circa Vintage Clothing]

Good idea Linn: I forgot to ask about the size.

Yes, I had a good look too and couldn't see any variations so I think you're right about printing.

 

[laurenm]

They are 3/4 of an inch in diameter.....it looks like porcelain to me, and that the image is maybe transferred (?) on as there is a little rim at the base of the 'dome' that looks plain white....I suppose they could be plastic but i would think they'd be lighter.....