Antique silver diadem or headdress (sinsile) worn by Turkoman women of the Teke group. 13 inches wide by 8 inches long.
Originally attached to a cap, or more often a tall hat, these ornaments framed the face of married women. Simpler designs were also worn by younger women (see ASF-300)
As usual there is plenty of symbolism - white silver, without fire-gilding represents the moon, sacred to women. The engravings relate to family, ancestors, and fertility. Triangles and double triangles (diamonds) and rams horns are protective imagery and the many carnelians are to ward off danger in the form of bleeding, wounds or miscarriages.
I have left this piece in the condition I found it, but if I were keeping I'd give it some love with a polishing cloth (FIT-5) to see it really shine.
This is a serious collectible piece, but I know many of you will see the potential in the many components that could be re-incarnated in many dozens of pairs of earrings, necklaces and bracelets. Don't be afraid to use it that way if you want to
Alternately, for the Art to Wear crowd, I can see this as a fabulous belt , or attached to the upper back of a jacket or coat. That would continue the Turkoman custom of sewing jewelry to clothing. Whatever happens I wish this piece a good life in its new home.
Germans seem to have had a particular affinity for Turkoman jewelry and many of the best books are in that language. One that has been translated is "Old Silver Jewellery of the Turkoman" by Dieter and Reinhold Schletzer.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
Press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection.
