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.

Turkoman rhombus pendant breastplate

Gilded Silver with intricate Teke design from the Mari region of Turkmenistan. Many oval carnelian cabochons of high quality inset. Bell beads and gilded pendants hang from the bottom section of the large rhombus. Ancestor symbols march decorate the top of the piece. Ca. 1900
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Comments

  • Excellent!
  • Beautifully balanced, what are the bales on the sides used for?
  • Thanks, Suzan.  I have seen them used in two different ways in the authoritative publication on Turkoman ornamentation (Dieter and Reinhold Schlechter, Old Silver Jewellery of the Turkoman, 1983).  In some cases, the neck chain or often a fabric cord or woven and embroidered harness will tie onto the side bails, while a second band will attach to the center bail, something like front suspenders.  In other cases, I have seen the chain or thong fed through the center bail and the side bails have bell bead pendants.  The woven and embroidered suspenders are the most traditional, and I do have one of those in my collection.  It is a very huge breastplate, and it requires the bands to hold it comfortably on the wearer.  The embroidered bands add to the beauty of the piece as well.  I must photograph that piece and add it to the album.  

    Anna

  • I am honored to have some photos from my Middle East and Central Asia album featured on the site's collection of featured items.  Thank you very much to the admin. 

    Anna

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