Victorian Hand Motif Brass Skirt Lifter

Since the dawn of humankind, people have been using their hands to express themselves and to convey emotions.

From shaking hands in friendship to holding hands in affection, each little gesture takes on a symbolic meaning that often spans seas, cultures and time.

It's no surprise that these expressive motifs have been captured and celebrated in antique jewelry, particularly in the sentimental Georgian and Victorian eras.

An often forgotten device during the mid to late Victorian era is a skirt lifter.  A handy little gadget that attached to your waistband, belt or chatelaine meant to hold the hem of your skirt while walking up stairs, climbing into carriages and to prevent your skirt from getting dirty.

This particular skirt lifter features a hand with a clip meant to hook over your waistband.  It contains a hook that holds a chain with an additional hand attached to the end.  The hands are grasping a rod which often meant the wearer was seeking guidance or comfort.  The end of the lifter has tongs that open and lock closed around fabric.  This skirt lifter is fashioned out of stamped brass with stunning details on the cuffs.