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ID please...

Posted by Betty on July 7, 2015 at 11:37am

This is a solid silver pendant from the Subcontinent I assume, but couldn't find any comparable pieces. Can anyone of you help to pinpoint its exact origin. Could it be a rather new piece? It feature 2 peacocks and an "eye"; good silver (800/1000) and measures roughly 5.5x5cm, 34 gr

Comments

Ethnic Embellishments July 7, 2015 at 4:45pm

Hi Betty, I agree with India as the most likely origin. It does look like it is a newer style, but I love the solidity of it. The tail feathers on the peacocks remind me of fingers and hence hamsas! Very lovely. I would hazard a guess at Rajasthan.
Betty July 7, 2015 at 5:48pm

Thank you for your comment, Hillary. It was bought in Saudi Arabia in the 1980s, that's unfortunately all I know.

The bails show little wear and unlike similar amulets it is cast rather than repousse work.

I attach a pic of the reverse:
Thelma July 8, 2015 at 6:28pm

This is very nice Betty. I'm afraid I can't offer more help with provenance... but the peacock feathers look like toes to me. Do you think there is an association with someone's feet? A god's, perhaps?
Betty July 8, 2015 at 9:54pm

An interesting observation, Thelma!

You are right - they really look like feet....