A GROUP OF NAGA PENDANTS AND EARRINGS, NAGALAND, NORTH-EAST INDIA

Comprising:



A. A cast brass chest ornament in the form of a section of conch-shell, the upper edge with a zigzag pattern and two suspension loops
B. Two cast metal plaque pendants, each with a band of diaper motif across the centre and a fringe of raised elements
C. Two metal pendants, in the form of two elongated arms applied with circular scrolls at either end and mounted with a large loop
D. Three earrings, probably Ao, in transparent glass in convex rectangular form with, on one side, a channel running from the outer edge to the centre

192A, slight weathering across the body with one approximately five millimetre hole on the upper right hand side. 192B, abrasion on both pieces with a crack to the loop on one of the pieces, and slight tear on the other. 192C, both intact but one has a missing metallic tooth at the top and two small cracks in its body, one which has created a small hole. 192D, square crystal beads have suffered slight discolouration, and erosion due to weathering. As viewed on all of them.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Metalworking is a highly specialised craft amongst the Nagas (Jacobs 1990, p.50). It is even prohibited in some villages. Naga metalworking takes two forms. Firstly, there are works fashioned from pieces of iron, tin or sheet brass through repeated heating and hammering. The Konyaks and Kalyo-Kengyus hold the greatest reputation for work of this kind. The second form of metalwork is produced using the lost wax method of casting, usually of brass poured into a stone mould lined with pig fat. The Aos, Konyaks and Kalyo-Kengyus are known to use this technique. All forms of metalworking were produced by men rather than women.

Closely related examples to these objects are illustrated by Jacobs (Jacobs 1990, p.257, 267 and 322).