Untitled

Unknown

17th–19th century · Mercury, gilt silver, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, pearls, lapis lazuli, coral, shell, and turquoise · Asian Art

The crossed vajras at the center of this arm ornament indicate the cardinal directions, and a diamond marks the axis of the universe—a place of ultimate stability where the Buddha reached enlightenment. The gems, semiprecious stones, and coral convey ideas of purity and form a mosaic that evokes the heavens. On either side of the armlet in reddish coral are kirtimukhas, fierce faces that symbolize the relentless passage of time.

Artist

Unknown

Date

17th–19th century

Medium

Mercury, gilt silver, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, pearls, lapis lazuli, coral, shell, and turquoise

Culture

Nepal

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

John Stewart Kennedy Fund, 1915