Nepalese Turquoise Necklace

A necklace of many fine turquoise bead strands, suspended from a pair of repoussé silver plaques joined by a chain. Each plaque is worked in descending registers: a domed upper section with a pair of facing birds, a band of lozenge elements, a central medallion with floral pattern, and a further band of lozenges. From the lower edges, numerous strands of small turquoise beads hang in parallel and fall together in a deep, curved drape. The plaques are joined at the back by a silver chain with a hook closure. The turquoise beads are small and even in size. The silver carries a darkened, worn patina.

Himalayan necklaces of this type pair worked silver plaques with fields of strung beads. The plaques hold the form, while the strands give it weight and movement.

From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Thailand at a traditional jewellery market, 1995.

Title

Nepalese Turquoise Necklace

Origin

Nepal

Date

19th–20th century

Dimensions

L 60–70 cm (23.6–27.6 in)

Medium

Turquoise and silver

Provenance

From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Thailand at a traditional jewellery market, 1995.

Condition

Surface worn. Silver stable. Patina consistent and undisturbed.