A common theme in ancient Greek art, the key or meander pattern has appeared intermittently in the history of jewellery. During the Second Empire in France, it was incorporated by Alfred and Frédéric Bapst into a diadem created for Empress Eugénie. She liked the pattern so much that she had the piece adapted on two occasions in 1864 and 1867. Each time the design was preserved, but with a less elaborate interpretation.

The present bracelet illustrates the Art Deco creator's interpretation of the motif. The pattern's right angles adapted perfectly to the geometric leanings of the period.