slightly tapered cylinder; larger end has subtile spiral pattern carved at end; white marble with grey and rust streaks

Bracelet in the Shape of a Conch, c. 6th-2nd century BCE

Unknown artist, expand_more

Marbleexpand_more

Gift of the Asian Art Councilexpand_more  2001.6.6

Not on Viewexpand_more

This marble bracelet vaguely imitates the shape of a conch shell. Archaeology in the Lopburi-Pa Sak river basins in central Thailand has verified the importance of shell ornaments to early bronze age inhabitants. Conch shells, large enough for bracelets had to be imported from coastal settlements into this region making them relatively precious objects. It is likely for this reason that the more common white marble, despite the difficulty in carving it, was fashioned in the form of a conch bracelet suggesting a more prestigious material.

Details
Title
Bracelet in the Shape of a Conch
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2001.6.6
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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slightly tapered cylinder; larger end has subtile spiral pattern carved at end; white marble with grey and rust streaks