- 195
A GROUP OF NAGA COWRIE-SHELL ADORNMENTS, MOSTLY KONYAK, NAGALAND, NORTH-EAST INDIA
Estimate
400 - 600 GBP
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Description
- cowrie shell
Comprising:
A. Three loin cloths, each with a cotton backing sewn with rows of cowrie shells
B. Two pairs of ear ornaments, the first in the form of crecents of tufted cotton sewn with cowrie shells, the second pair composed of a fringe of cotton lengths threaded with shells and terminating in leaf-shaped resin pendants
C. A brass pendant of disc-form with a pierced work and repousse interlace design, suspended with three leather strands threaded with cowrie shells
A. Three loin cloths, each with a cotton backing sewn with rows of cowrie shells
B. Two pairs of ear ornaments, the first in the form of crecents of tufted cotton sewn with cowrie shells, the second pair composed of a fringe of cotton lengths threaded with shells and terminating in leaf-shaped resin pendants
C. A brass pendant of disc-form with a pierced work and repousse interlace design, suspended with three leather strands threaded with cowrie shells
Condition
Considerable wear, fraying and discolouration of cotton and a few losses of small cowries associated with tribal usage. See illustration in catalogue, as viewed
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
Cowrie shells were a popular embellishment for loin cloths, to some extent a statement of wealth. Amongst the tribes different patterns were employed in the application of these shells allowing for the tribal identification of the cloths (Jacobs 1990, p.273).