Earring, One of a Pair
Not on view
The jhumkas or bell-shaped pendants on the lower part of these jewels are typical of earrings or ear ornaments. Traditionally, earrings were an important element of married women's adornment in India, and widows could be identified by their bare earlobes.
These ornaments were formerly in the collection of American artist and designer Lockwood de Forest (1850β1932) who purchased many jeweled objects while traveling in India between 1879β1881. Today, his collection of Indian jewelry in the Met serves as a near-comprehensive assemblage of late nineteenth century bodily adornment.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.