Philippe Wolfers (1858 - 1929), Hair ornament in the form of an orchid, 1905-7. Gold, plique-a-jour enamel, diamonds and rubies. Museum no. M.11-1962. © V&A Images. 

Jewel in the shape of an orchid, its four curving lilac petals emanating from a central diamond.

Philippe Wolfers was the most prestigious of the Art Nouveau jewellers working in Brussels. Like his Parisian contemporary René Lalique, he was greatly influenced by the natural world. These exotic orchids feature in the work of both. The technical achievement of enamelling in plique-a-jour (backless) enamel on these undulating surfaces is impressive. 

Orchids symbolised the Art Nouveau movement and its fascination with nature, sensuality and exotic flowers.