Bead, One of a Pair

Unknown

18th century · Gold, emeralds, rubies, and/or garnets · Islamic Art

Because this bead and 1981.5.18 are the only beads of their type known to us, we can only speculate as to how they were used in combination with other elements; it is likely, however, that they were strung as a necklace and separated by pearls in multiple strands, as was common in many seventeenth- to nineteenth-century Moroccan necklaces. Although this type of pushed-up setting on a repoussé ground of thin metal is typical of Moroccan jewelry, the fine workmanship and design, including the dense setting of stones in graduated rows on the melonlike form, create an effect unparalleled in the work of this school.

Artist

Unknown

Date

18th century

Medium

Gold, emeralds, rubies, and/or garnets

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Marguerite McBey, 1981