Belt
This articulated silver belt is ornamented with small square plaques depicting a variety of south Indian sacred creatures, including the sacred swan (hamsa) and mythical feline creatures (yalis), among others. Such a belt was typical of south India and worn by women.
This jewel was formerly in the collection of American artist and designer Lockwood de Forest (1850–1932) who purchased many items while traveling in India between 1879–1881. Today, his assemblage in the Met serves as an in-depth study collection of Indian jewelry from the late nineteenth century.
This jewel was formerly in the collection of American artist and designer Lockwood de Forest (1850–1932) who purchased many items while traveling in India between 1879–1881. Today, his assemblage in the Met serves as an in-depth study collection of Indian jewelry from the late nineteenth century.
Artwork Details
- Title: Belt
- Date: 18th–19th century
- Geography: Attributed to India, Chennai (Madras)
- Medium: Silver
- Dimensions: Ht. 9 13/16 in. (25 cm)
W. 9 1/16 in. (23 cm)
D. 1 3/16 in. (3 cm) - Classification: Jewelry
- Credit Line: John Stewart Kennedy Fund, 1915
- Object Number: 15.95.13
- Curatorial Department: Islamic Art
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17th–19th century
19th century
19th century
18th–19th century
17th–19th century
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