Enquiry about object: 10414
Mughal Carved Jade Pendant set with Gold and Carved Gems
Northern India 19th century
diameter: 4.1cm, length (including loop): 5.1cm, thickness: 0.7cm, weight: 21g
Provenance
UK art market
This fine, round pendant is carved from a single piece of pale green nephrite jade.
One side is inset with nine green stones carved as flowers, and arrayed in a flower-like formation, and all in gold kundan settings. The gold used in such work typically was as close as possible to 24-carats.
The top has a small rectangular section which is mounted with a later, yellow-metal loop to allow suspension from a necklace.
The reverse is beautifully carved with an elaborate flower, very much in Mughal style.
This example is in excellent condition.
The pendant is from northern India and probably made in Delhi. It accords with Mughal tastes, although could be worn by both Muslims and Hindus.
References
Bala Krishnan, U.R., & M.S. Kumar, Dance of the Peacock: Jewellery Traditions of India, India Book House Ltd, 1999.
Geoffroy-Schneiter, B., Asian Jewellery: Ethnic Rings, Bracelets, Necklaces, Earrings, Belts, Head Ornaments, Skira, 2011.
Keane, M., Treasury of the World: Jewelled Arts of India in the Age of the Mughals – The Al-Sabah Collection Kuwait National Museum, Thames & Hudson,
2001.
Moura Carvalho, P., Gems and Jewels of Mughal India: Jewelled and Enamelled Objects from the 16th to 20th Centuries, The Nasser D. Khalili Collection of Islamic Art, Volume XVII, The Nour Foundation, 2010.
Untracht, O., Traditional Jewelry of India, Thames & Hudson, 1997.
