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Diadem with Kinnaris (Half-Bird, Half-Female Creatures)

9th–10th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 237
This three-piece repoussé diadem is a rare example of early Indian jewelry. Four kinnaris—half-bird, half-female celestial celebrants—dominate the design. It was probably made in Kashmir, judging by the likeness of the kinnaris to those depicted on the ninth-century temple of Avantisvamin at Avantipur, Kashmir.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Diadem with Kinnaris (Half-Bird, Half-Female Creatures)
  • Date: 9th–10th century
  • Culture: India (Jammu & Kashmir, ancient kingdom of Kashmir)
  • Medium: Gold inset with garnet
  • Dimensions: H. 4 5/8 in. (11.8 cm); W. 11 1/8 in. (28.3 cm)
  • Classification: Jewelry
  • Credit Line: Gift of Evelyn Kossak, The Kronos Collections, 1988
  • Object Number: 1988.395a–c
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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