Soutache First World War Centenary poppy brooch, 2014

Handmade beaded brooch in the form of a poppy, with silken Soutache cord and finished in crystal. Designed and manufactured for Kleshna Jewellery for the centenary of the First World War (1914-1918), with 15% from the sale of each poppy going to The Royal British Legion.

Soutache is a traditional military appliqué, specifically the application of a special dual core cord developed in the 15th century. Swirls of silk Soutache braid were stitched flat to make intricate patterns which created uniform trimmings. Traditionally, width, colour and pattern of Soutache is used to indicate rank.