Enquiry about object: 4964
Indian Pierced Silver Bracelet
Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India 19th century
diameter or face: 5.2cm, internal diameter of band: approx. 5.5cm, weight: 100g
Provenance
Collection of the late Paul Walter, New York, probably acquired in London
This fine, hinged bracelet is from Andhra Pradesh. The central, engraved and raised lotus motif is surrounded by four sacred yali faces from which spring pierced sprays of leaves and flowers.
The band is hinged and opens with a long screw mechanism which turns anti-clockwise to close. The band is engraved with bands of ropework to emulate a multi-link band.
A related, less refined example is illustrated in van Cutsem (2002, p. 201) and another is in Untracht ( 1997, p. 253).
The example here has a fine patina and plenty of signs of age. It is robust and stable. It would fit a lady with a small wrist.
References
van Cutsem, A., A World of Bracelets: Africa, Asia, Oceania, America, Skira, 2002.
Untracht, O., Traditional Jewelry of India, Thames & Hudson, 1997.
