**Originally Listed At $2500**

Central Asia, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, or Turkmenistan, Turkoman (Turkman), Karakalpak, or Tekke peoples, ca. 19th to mid-20th century CE. This is a massive and gorgeous high quality gilt silver, carnelian, and glass pendant known as an asyk or ashik, a piece that is traditionally worn in the hair. The pendant is in the shape of a large palmette made of 78% silver and fire gilded with 66% (equivalent to 15K+) gold and 31% silver with 17 raised bezels containing citrine hued carnelian stones and glass. The front face is engraved with curvilinear patterns and decorative wirework, and at the tip is a large finial with 3 integral loops for suspension, and the additional heart shaped plates attached via a rod and rings to the main plate. These pendants were presented to women upon their wedding day to be worn on the back, suspended by the ends of plaited hair. Size: 16" L x 9" W (40.6 cm x 22.9 cm); silver quality: 31% on gilt areas and 78% on the rest; gold quality: 66% (equivalent to 15K+); weight: 907 grams.

Provenance: Whisnant Gallery, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA acquired prior to 2000

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#169984

Some fading and losses to gilt. Indentations and bending to silver rod on finial top. Areas of green oxidation and minor surface abrasions. Toning and dark patina throughout. Carnelian stones are intact, and plates are secure. Approximately 4 of the "stones" are carved from glass.