An early nineteenth century single shoe buckle, designed as two intertwined snakes, set with colorless pastes with green and red accents in silver, length 2.5 in, width 4.5 in, circa 1830. 

Jewelry featuring snakes and serpentine design grew in popularity during the final years of the eighteenth century and reached its zenith during the Victorian era. The snake motif was popularized by Victoria in her own jewelry choices preceding her marriage, but was greatly increased with the presentation of a ring featuring a serpent by Prince Albert to commemorate his betrothal to the young queen. Snakes have served as an emblem in jewelry and fashion symbolizing eternity, wisdom, and seductive beauty.