Earring, 20th Century
Tibetan culture; Tibet Autonomous Region, China
Silver, turqoise and gl…

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Earring

ClassificationsClothing and Adornments-ear ornaments-earrings

Culture Tibetan

Date20th Century

Made AtTibet Autonomous Region, China, Asia

MediumSilver, turqoise and glass

Dimensions2019.15.40.1a-c: 4 3/8 × 1 3/4 × 3/4 in. (11.1 × 4.4 × 1.9 cm)
2019.15.40.1a: 3 1/4 × 3/4 × 1 3/4 in. (8.3 × 1.9 × 4.4 cm)
2019.15.40.1b: 11/16 × 11/16 × 11/16 in. (1.7 × 1.7 × 1.7 cm)
2019.15.40.1c: 2 × 5/8 × 5/8 in. (5.1 × 1.6 × 1.6 cm)

Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih

Object number2019.15.40.1a-c

DescriptionThis is an earring style worn by both women and in some cases men in the eastern and central regions of Tibet. Aspects of the earrings, particularly the turquoise inlay, are possibly abstracted versions of the dharma wheel. These earrings are highly characteristic of Tibetan culture are depicted in Tibetan bronzes as early as the 15th Century. Turquoise was historically very rare in Tibet and held an important role in holding spiritual significance and determining societal status.

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