Tibetan Fossil Shell Necklace

A necklace of fossil shell beads with a deep fringe, anchored by a row of engraved silver tubes. A single strand of irregular fossil shell beads, interspersed with small silver spacers, forms the neck and closes with a loop and button at the back. From the lower arc hangs a row of silver tubes, each engraved with scrolling ornament. Multiple strands of smaller shell beads descend from each tube, finished with silver caps. At the centre, a strand of larger shell beads hangs between the tubes. The shell beads vary in size, tone and surface. The silver carries a darkened, worn patina.

Tibetan necklaces of this type build a large form from many small units. Shell and worked silver alternate along the strands, and the fringe gives the piece its weight and movement.

From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Thailand during a cultural jewellery fair, 1981.

Title

Tibetan Fossil Shell Necklace

Origin

Tibet

Date

19th–20th century

Dimensions

L 46 cm (18.1 in)

Medium

Fossil shell and silver

Provenance

From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Thailand during a cultural jewellery fair, 1981.

Condition

Surface worn. Silver stable. Patina consistent and undisturbed.