Earring, One of a Pair

18th–20th century
Not on view
This earring and its mate (1981.5.20) were fabricated with emeralds, rubies, and gold, as well as blue, green and red-orange champlevé enamel, applied in scrolling arabesque motifs. These jewels were most likely made in Fes, or Meknes. In this technique, craftsmen engraved the decorative pattern into the metal, before applying a paste of colored glass in the recesses, which was then melted through heating. Inlaid enamel decorative techniques were both popular in Nasrid Spain (1232–1492), and were likely brought to Morocco by Muslim craftsmen who emigrated from Al-Andalus before or during the 15th century Reconquista.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Earring, One of a Pair
  • Date: 18th–20th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Morocco
  • Medium: Gold, emerald, ruby, and champlevé enamel
  • Dimensions: Dimension excludes wire:
    L. 1 7/8 in. (4.7 cm)
    W. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm)
  • Classification: Jewelry
  • Credit Line: Gift of Marguerite McBey, 1981
  • Object Number: 1981.5.21
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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