Earring, One of a Pair

Unknown

12th century · Gold wire with filigree · Islamic Art

Ornaments of this double-conical shape are known from the region of eastern Saudi Arabia and Oman, where they were worn by Bedouin women. The cluster of gold granules on the bottom of the jewel are often understood as references to the mulberry fruit – a symbol of fertility, which has been used since antiquity to ornament jewelry in this region. Adornments such as these may have been worn as earrings (through the ear) or attached to a necklace or a headdress.

Artist

Unknown

Date

12th century

Medium

Gold wire with filigree

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1952