Dueling Dragons with Cut Steels: Antique Picture Buttons

Dragon/Cockatrice

with Cut Steel Body

c1880s

Two Piece

Tinted Brass

Japanned Back

NBS Small, 11/16"

Dragon with Cut Steels
c1880s
One Piece
Tinted Brass
NBS Small, 11/16"


Dueling Dragons with Cut Steels



Dueling Dragons - Backs

These buttons are great examples of the art of button construction and design. They both depict dragons (AKA fabulous creatures) with cut steels. The dragon with a cut steel body is made in three main parts with a front, a back, and a rim. He is a depiction of a cockatrice (without his legs or rooster comb). The second dragon is a one piece stamped brass button with four riveted and faceted cut steels. The term "fabulous creature" applies to all dragon or dragon-like creatures depicted on buttons. When placed together, the two creatures appear to be in opposition. I'm fascinated by the exceptional detail on buttons that are just shy of 3/4".

Image and Text © 2009 Anne AKA Once Upon A Button