Bracelet with Lion Hinges

Unknown

19th century · Gold; set with diamonds and rubies · Islamic Art

This bracelet is studded with diamonds and rubies, and the hinges on this remarkable piece are ornamented with two pairs of confronting lion heads, a powerful symbol which could be associated with the wearer. The diamonds likely originated near the historical mines of Golconda, in south central India. 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; set with diamonds and rubies

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1919