A Rare Breed

Day 10:
I have discovered a rare breed of species, virtually unknown in Australia.

Found in the cold climate of Munich, amongst Schmuck's gallery openings, book launches and exhibitions, and enjoying a wide diet ranging from Champagne and canapés to beer and bratwurst, they also feast on all aspects of the jewellery world (metaphorically of course....)

I am talking about the brooch wearing male, part of the bigger European Man Brooch Phenomenon.

Suave and sophisticated and of the heterosexual and homosexual variety, it has been a treat to see these men (artists, jewellers, gallery owners, wealthy patrons and general jewellery enthusiasts) wear their brooches on their lapels with pride.

And just to clarify, we are not talking about an inconspicuous pin here, but big pieces of sculptural, pin on art.

There is no question amongst these men that jewellery is something to be enjoyed by both men and women but in Australia, men treat the brooch with some suspicion. Rings, fancy watches and necklaces are all worn happily, but other than the button pin variety (with a Che Guevara or a band logo perhaps), I have seen very few (if any?) Australian men proudly showing off a beautifully crafted brooch.

I'm not sure why. Because the 'man-brooch', so to speak, is uncomfortable? Uncool? Unacceptable?

Personally, I hope this European attitude will soon rub off in Australia - that the brooch wearing male will become an introduced species.

So Dad, if you're reading this, watch out. It's brooch time.
V.