PROBABLY RAJASTHAN, MUGHAL INDIA, LATE 18TH OR EARLY 19TH CENTURY

The unusual oblong shape of the mounts on this pair of bracelets may relate to Mughal amulet-case pendants. There is an example in the al-Sabah collection which also does not open, suggesting that even in the 17th century the form had become separated from the original purpose (Salam Kaoukji, Adornment and Splendour: Jewels of the Indian Courts, London, 2023, p.110, no.47). In her note, Kaoukji refers to a painting - possibly by Manohar - which is in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, in which Jahangir is depicted wearing such a pendant (acc.no.M.83.1.15). Pendants of similar form can be seen on an 18th century necklace in the National Design Museum, Washington D.C. (acc.no.1931-6-56).

A single bracelet similar in design to ours was offered, Sotheby's London, 23 October 2019, lot 245.