Chest chain

Chest chains such as this one were known as “Et Haag an Leenk” and served to fasten the sides of low-cut jackets together. Young women were permitted to wear these chains from the time of their confirmation, and corresponding medals would be integrated upon their engagement or marriage. As their decorative character continued to gain in importance in the course of the 19th century while their functionality receded, the chest chains became ever more elaborate.