http://collection.shangrilahawaii.org/internal/media/dispatcher/44148/fullDiamond-Inset Twisted Pearl Bracelet with Enamelled Gold Confronted Makara-Heads Clasp19th - 20th centuryOverall: 3 1/2 in. (8.9cm)Enameled gold, diamonds, freshwater pearlsGift of the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation. Courtesy of the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art.57.1121This bracelet is composed of intertwining strands of pearls clasped with two confronting enameled makara heads. Makara are crocodile-like aquatic creatures of Hindu mythology, and can be seen in various stylistic depictions throughout South and Southeast Asian art, often playing an integral role in Hindu and Buddhist architecture.
Pearls have been used in traditional Indian jewelry since ancient times. Although pearl fisheries existed off the coast of south India, the most abundant source of pearls was the Persian Gulf.Jewelry0E-100E-100E-101647745061