Earring, One of a Pair

19- 20th century
Not on view
Ornaments of this double-conical shape are known from the region of eastern Saudi Arabia and Oman, where they were worn by Bedouin women. The cluster of gold granules on the bottom of the jewel are often understood as references to the mulberry fruit – a symbol of fertility, which has been used since antiquity to ornament jewelry in this region. Adornments such as these may have been worn as earrings (through the ear) or attached to a necklace or a headdress.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Earring, One of a Pair
  • Date: 19- 20th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Saudi Arabia or Oman
  • Medium: Gold wire with filigree
  • Classification: Jewelry
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1952
  • Object Number: 52.4.3
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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