The idea of an esclavage began in Europe prior to the Empire period in France. In its simplest definition, it translates to a festoon necklace that usually supports three decorative stations. This style reached a height in the first quarter of the 19th century with the rise of the Empire period in France. Fashion preferred Classical references that included dresses with clean silhouettes, and deep necklines. 

Here, there is a series of 5 different gold chains that festoon neatly via 3 jeweled clusters made of foiled paste, and decorated with gold acanthus leaves. It has a beautiful, and very French barrel clasp that is enameled with decorative pansies, leaving no doubt that this was a sentimental necklace. Pansy is a play on the French verb, penser, meaning remember or think of me. Additionally the chain laden name of this silhouette, esclavage, references the notion of being bound by love.

France, ca 1830