Armband (Bazuband)

19th century
Not on view
Jewels worn on the upper bicep are known as bazuband and are among the most well-known adornments from India. This example is fabricated of gold, and features a small green piece of glass at its center, in emulation of an emerald. The red silk threads would be tied around the arm of the wearer to hold the jewel fast in place.  

This jewel was formerly in the collection of American artist and designer Lockwood de Forest (1850–1932) who purchased many jeweled objects while traveling in India between 1879–1881. Today, his collection of Indian jewelry in the Met serves as a near-comprehensive assemblage of late nineteenth century bodily adornment.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Armband (Bazuband)
  • Date: 19th century
  • Geography: Attributed to India
  • Medium: Gold, silk thread and glass; hammered in relief and chased
  • Dimensions: L. 19 in. (48.3 cm)
  • Classification: Jewelry
  • Credit Line: John Stewart Kennedy Fund, 1915
  • Object Number: 15.95.76
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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