Ornament

Unknown

19th century · Gold, beryl; enameled on verso · Islamic Art

This large ornament likely once served as a pendant in a necklace. The central gemstone is a light green beryl, which was originally foiled on the backside to create a vibrant and deep green color. The foil has since deteriorated, leaving an uneven appearance in the center stone. Red, green, and white enameling (meenakari) on the backside enhances the floral shape of this ornament. This ornament 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, beryl; enameled on verso

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

John Stewart Kennedy Fund, 1915