Javanese Ear Ornament

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Javanese Ear Ornament

Posted by Edith D on January 26, 2017 at 6:43am

This ear ornament is currently owned by a traditional Javanese dancer. It is made from thin silver sheet with a gold wash. I have been told that this form is descended from the protective ear pieces once worn by Javanese warriors. The shape references the wings of Garuda, messenger of the gods. It is decorated with repousse designs that include a snake and flowers.

Comments

Edith D January 26, 2017 at 6:52am

Many thanks to this kind lady for allowing me to photograph the ear ornament. This is how it is worn.

I am told that this piece is collectively owned by her family. There is a small ornamental chain attached to the piece to emphasize the movement of the wearer.
Thelma January 26, 2017 at 11:10am

This is very interesting, Edith. I've been trying to understand how it can be firmly fixed on the ear.. which must be necessary if it is used by dancers. Beautiful in itself but even more so when used with an earring like this.
Edith D January 26, 2017 at 1:54pm

Hi Thelma! Yes, I wondered the same thing. You can see in the photo below that the dancer has pinned it with a modern Barrett, but I am sure traditionally there would have been some other device...perhaps a special pin or clip? Or maybe sewn on with thread? Anyway, if I find out I'll let you know.
Peter Hoesli January 27, 2017 at 8:00am

Dear Edith, This is a wonderful ear ornament. Thanks for posting! Peter
Alaa eddine SAGID February 17, 2017 at 1:06pm

Lovely Edith! I am pretty sure that traditionnally there is a crown/headdress accompanying this accessory. Either this ear ornamenet was part of the headdress and went loose or it was attached to it or tightned firmly at his place by the weight of headdress!
Edith D February 18, 2017 at 2:07pm

Thanks for your comments Alaa eddine, it would make sense that it was once accompanied by a crown. I was fortunate enough to be able to hold and closely examine this ornament, and I did not see any evidence of previous attachments. However, the lady wearing it was holding it on her head with a modern barrette, which seems rather awkward. So, I would say that I agree that it would have helped to attach it to a crown. I shall keep my eyes out for other examples, perhaps I will see some other methods of attaching this!

Gallery

Javanese Ear Ornament

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