Lover's Eye
In keeping with my fascination of all things historically unusual, I’ve painted a few tributes to the Lover’s Eye. Lover’s Eyes signifying love (or mourning) were painted on small pieces of ivory or board and worn as jewellery in late 18th and early 19th century England. I think what interests me about this fashion trend is the intimate anonymity. The eye pictures were intensely private objects that were recognizable and meaningful only to the intended recipient. They could be worn close to the body - on the wrist or near the heart - on display or discreetly hidden behind folds of fabric.
oil on aluminum, approx. 2 x 2.5 inches and oil on aluminum approx. 2 x 5 inches
