HvWO 036

Antique Omani large silver ornament used to fasten plaits with young girls

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Silver Halka hair ornament

 

Very rare large high quality Omani large HALKA / HALQA. Used to fasten plaits with young girls.  With fine detailed floral designs, the heart in the middle has been heightened with gold. This is a a very old Halka. The modern Halka´s are smaller and crudely made. Weight 135 grams. Length without the chains and bells is 11,5 cm.

 Antique Omani silver hair ornament

 

Arab names: HALKA / HALQA

Period: 1850-1900

Origin: Oman (The heart shape suggests Rustaq)  Zanzibar

References:
  1. Oman Adorned Pauline by Shelton  Robert Richmond / Apex London 1997 p 66 bottom
  2. Oman catalog Tentoonstelling Nieuwe Kerk 2009 p 132 (poor example) 
  3. Disappearing treasures of Oman 1998 by Avelyn Foster p 66 fig 57
  4. Traditional silver jewelry and handicrafts from Oman 2009 by Jean Greffioz p 18-19
  5. British museum have a poor example in their on-line collection number  As1999,01.24 purchased in Oman in the 1960´s weight 102 grams
  6. Islamic Art in Oman page 342 (poor examples)
  7. British Museum similar item but with very crude decoration (so more modern) 1950's.  Length: 15.5 centimetres (incl. danglers) Width: 8 centimetres (widest part) Weight: 102 grammes Museum Reg: As1999,01.24