Fancy Feathers

The motif of the three ostrich feathers- actually part of the heraldic badge of the Prince of Wales- has been incorporated into the decorative arts through the ages. Many Hepplewhite chairs, for example, have the three feathers carved into their backs. Wallis Simpson, a.k.a Duchess of Windsor, had a diamond encrusted pin (above) with this emblem (it was later purchased by La Liz at auction).

While the ostrich feather motif may not be as recognizable as that other monarchical symbol of the fleur-de-lis, it is no less distinctive. In fact, it can be downright glamorous. Just look at those Jansen consoles below.


One of a set of 6 Mahogany Hepplewhite chairs, 19th c., from Thomas Jolly Antiques


Maison Jansen console tables, c. 1940s, available at Alan Moss


"Cheyney Walk" paper by Cole & Sons. Not technically the three feather motif but the lines are quite similar.


Pair of silver leaf brackets, c. 1850, from O'Sullivan Antiques


Grosfeld House crystal wall brackets, c. 1945, at Florian Papp. They may just have one feather each, but they're beautiful nonetheless.