Detail of birds and flowers, Iznaq

This is a massive and ornate Palestinian iznaq or chin-chain from Bethlehem. Each link on the chain is decorated with tiny knobs, and a link of twisted wire goes in between each figure-eight. In the middle there are two birds connecting the outer chains with the inner ones. Four flower-shapes adorn the inner three chains, with two red, one blue, and one green stone. The flower shapes on the inside are a pyramid, with a 16-pointed flower atop a 24-pointed flower. The 18 coins adorning the body of the necklace are all Spanish 2 Reales from the early 1700s -- the earliest date that is legible is 1717. In the center bottom, there is a floral cross shape made up of leaves unfolding on a filigree cross frame, and a flower inside a star. Again here are interesting numbers: 24 points on the bottom cross, 12 points to the star, 8 points to the outer flower petals, and 6 points to the inner petals. At the bottom is a Maria Thaler. This is a wonderful piece of cultural heritage and I am very lucky to be its custodian! Does anyone know if the leaves and flowers are supposed to represent specific plants?Dimensions:410 gramsLaid out this way, 16" long and 11" wide

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Mustafa J. Salem April 9, 2015 at 11:43am

Very attractive and beautiful flowers and birds. The flowers are with precise details and very well crafted with various colours of ' glass?' jewels which add to the beauty of the piece. I am sure it is a rare item to get Lynn. It is nice of you to share with us by posting the details of this fancy item. Thanks

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Detail of birds and flowers, Iznaq

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