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Lot Essay
An elaborate example of South Indian gold jewellery, the necklace comprises articulated elements finely worked with filigree, granulation and pierced openwork, and set with cabochon rubies and emeralds. Of particular note are the three elongated central pendants, flanked by two large convex almond-shaped elements, together with the finely worked gold chain and gem-set clasp. A 19th-century kaluthiru from Chettinad in the National Museum, New Delhi (89.1015), provides a useful comparison for the combination of claw-like pendants, tubular and rounded elements, granulation, wirework and openwork, although the construction and ornamentation of the present necklace are distinct.
The present and following lot are both examples of South Indian temple necklaces, a term used for jewellery associated with the rich devotional jewellery traditions of southern India. Temple jewellery developed in connection with ornaments made for Hindu deities and was also worn by temple dancers; by the 19th century, related forms were used as ceremonial and bridal jewellery. Such necklaces could therefore have several functions, from temple offerings and adornment of deities to use in dance and marriage ceremonies.
The present and following lot are both examples of South Indian temple necklaces, a term used for jewellery associated with the rich devotional jewellery traditions of southern India. Temple jewellery developed in connection with ornaments made for Hindu deities and was also worn by temple dancers; by the 19th century, related forms were used as ceremonial and bridal jewellery. Such necklaces could therefore have several functions, from temple offerings and adornment of deities to use in dance and marriage ceremonies.