Gallery

A digital archive showcasing the extensive collection of jewellery and adornment images shared on the former Ethnic Jewels Ning site over the years. These images have significantly enriched discussions on cultural adornment and its global dispersion.

Bulgarian pectoral

Posted by Lynn Ardent on September 27, 2014 at 9:06pm

Silver and gilding. The birds are hooks to be worn with the jewel dangling down the chest. One of the hooks is broken off. The jewel is glass and the beads are white hearts. I originally had this listed as a Kyustek - a man's chest ornament, but I have since found out that it was a woman's pectoral from Pirin Sandaski, Bulgaria.

Comments

Peter Hoesli September 27, 2014 at 11:46pm

Dear Lynn, this a very nice chest ornament. I simply love the Bulgarian jewelry - it is so elegant and really shows the power it once had. While Bulgaria is one of today's poorest country in Europe, it used to be an empire, with its land reaching the Caspean sea!
Thanks for sharing this beauty. Peter
Eva Baby September 29, 2014 at 5:46am

Quite amazing what turns up about Bulgaria! Lovely Piece, really beautiful.
Lynn Ardent March 29, 2015 at 4:12pm

I originally had this listed as a man's chest ornament but I have since found out that it is a woman's pectoral from Pirin Sandaski. Looks like it goes with some of my favorite types of Bulgarian jewelry -- the kind with the huge carnelians! Someday. :)

Here is the photo of the woman's costume:
Betty March 29, 2015 at 4:23pm

Many thanks for the picture and the update, Lynn. Fantastic information.
Lynn Ardent March 29, 2015 at 4:33pm

I'm glad you enjoyed the update Betty. I love researching my collection. I keep a OneNote where I collect the information I have found on each piece.