Necklace

Necklace — Tibetan, 19th–20th Century

Description

A necklace structured around a central amber pendant, suspended from a segmented strand of coral and stone beads. The strand is organised in sections, with smaller beads at the upper register giving way to larger elements toward the lower arc, establishing a transition from suspension to terminal focus. The strand closes with a single turquoise bead serving as the terminal clasp element.

The pendant is formed from a single piece of amber, irregular in outline and set within a silver mount that defines its perimeter. It occupies the central position of the composition, anchoring the structure and establishing the vertical axis.

On either side of the pendant, silver tubular elements set with turquoise cabochons are positioned at intervals along the strand. These are interspersed with coral beads and composite beads of turquoise with coral inlay, placed symmetrically and marking the transition toward the central pendant. Smaller spacers regulate the sequence, creating a structured progression of material and scale. The strand runs uninterrupted, allowing the variation in form and material to read as a single continuous structure.

Context

Tibetan jewellery of this type is organised through the relationship between a dominant central element and a segmented bead structure. Material contrast between organic elements and worked metal establishes hierarchy, while variation in scale and placement determines the composition.

Provenance

From the Felice Maffei Collection.

Acquired in Tibet, 1970.

Available on private enquiry.