Bracelet with Seed Shaped Beads (Pahunchi), One of a Pair

Unknown

19th century · Gold and silk · Islamic Art

This bracelet, known as pahunchi, is decorated on the exterior with seed-shaped ornaments. These small generators of life can be interpreted as symbols of reproduction and fertility. Along with other plant components such as flowers, leaves, and vines, such forms are often found ornamenting Indian jewelry. This jewel was formerly in the collection of American artist and designer Lockwood de Forest (1850–1932) who purchased many jeweled objects while traveling in India between 1879–1881. Today, his collection of Indian jewelry in the Met serves as a near-comprehensive assemblage of late nineteenth century bodily adornment.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th century

Medium

Gold and silk

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

John Stewart Kennedy Fund, 1915