Enquiry about object: 7494
Pair of Javanese Silver Serpent Curtain Hooks (Klambu)
Java, Indonesia early 20th century
height: 23.8cm, width: approximately 10.8cm, length of chains: approximately 23cm individually, combined weight: 123g
Provenance
private collection, London; previously in the collection of the Tom White MBE, a former British diplomat who served in Indonesia
This pair of chased, high-grade silver is for use to hold back a mosquito net or other curtains on a colonial-style four-poster bed in Java, Indonesia.
Each is formed as a crowned serpent or naga, with the tapering, scaly and curvy body of the serpent making up the larger part of each hook.
Each is finely rendered with an open mouth, fangs and a curling tongue.
Each has a fine silver chain used to secure the hook to the bed.
Each is in fine condition. There is some minor, expected denting.
References
Backman, M., Malay Silver and Gold: Courtly Splendour from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and Thailand, River Books, 2024.
Carpenter, B., Javanese Antique Furniture and Folk Art: The David B. Smith and James Tirtoprodjo Collections, EDM, 2009.
Fischer, J., The Folk Art of Java, Oxford University Press, 1994.
