1970s NOS Whiting and Davis Snake Cuff with Tag

Description

Amazing, new, old stock, gold tone, Whiting & Davis chain mail snake cuff! The snake cuff first appeared in the 1890s, and saw a great resurgence in the 1970s, with slinky materials such as chainmail dominating the disco nightclub scene. The snake circles around the wrist almost four times, and includes its original tag.

Whiting & Davis was established as Wade, Davis and Co. in 1876. In 1892 Whiting and Davis created their first mesh handbag, and in 1912, after automating the mesh weaving process, Whiting & Davis expanded considerably, overshadowing their competitors with a wide variety of mesh woven handbags and accessories. Whiting & Davis has been a stalwart presence throughout the 20th century, partnering with couturier Paul Poiret in the 1920s, collaborating with designer Elsa Schiaparelli in the 1930s, and joining the war effort in the 1940s.

Whiting & Davis spearheaded the flashy cocktail jewelry trend of the 1950s, created jewelry for Elizabeth Taylor in her leading role in 1963’s Cleopatra, and were also tremendously popular with the 1970s disco crowd because of the slinky, sensual quality of their mesh. Michael Jackson’s 1983 “Beat It” jacket featured Whiting and Davis mesh on the shoulders; finally, in the 1990s, Whiting & Davis worked alongside numerous designers including Marc Jacobs and Anthony Ferrara. Whiting and Davis fan’s of note include Mamie Eisenhower, Rebecca Romijn, and Lady Gaga.

Oh also, they make chain mail shark suits - amazing!