Ottoman Style Tughra Motif Misbaha Tassel in 1000 Grade Kazaz Silver
Jewelry (Religious/Devotional Accessory - Prayer Bead Tassel) · Unbranded Turkish Artisanal Workshop; Trabzon Kazaziye tradition. Known for hand-weaving silver wire into intricate flexible jewelry.
Pattern: Trabzon Kazaz Wire Weaving; features traditional Ottoman love knot (Aşk Düğümü) charms and woven cylindrical 'caps'.
Type
Jewelry (Religious/Devotional Accessory - Prayer Bead Tassel)
Maker
Unbranded Turkish Artisanal Workshop; Trabzon Kazaziye tradition. Known for hand-weaving silver wire into intricate flexible jewelry.
Material
1000 Grade Fine Silver (99.9% pure silver wire) and sterling silver (.925) for cast charms; emerald green silk or nylon cord base.
Dimensions
Total length approximately 10-12 cm; individual charms approx 12mm; weight estimated at 8-12 grams of silver content.
Description
This exquisite silver tassel is a prime example of Turkish Kazaziye art. It features hand-woven fine silver wire elegantly encased around a dark cord, terminating in symbolic Ottoman knots. The piece serves as a decorative and spiritual finish to Islamic prayer beads, though it is also commonly worn as a fashion accessory in Turkey.
Key Features
Hand-knitted pure silver wire; 'Aşk Düğümü' (Love Knot) charms; flexible 'snake' weave cylinders; characteristic high-purity silver luster.
Material & Composition
1000 Grade Fine Silver (99.9% pure silver wire) and sterling silver (.925) for cast charms; emerald green silk or nylon cord base.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized (antiqued) finish with bright-cut highlights. Hand-woven 'Kazaz' wirework techniques, including knitting and herringbone-style wrapping.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually unmarked due to the thinness of woven wire; charms may bear a small '1000' or '925' stamp on the jump ring or reverse side.
Construction Details
Hand-crafted using Kazaziye technique: 0.08 micron pure silver wire hand-knitted over a silk core. Cold-joined jump rings with cast finish charms.
Functional Features
Modular tassel ends designed to be attached to the 'Imam' (lead bead) of a Misbaha (prayer beads). Flexible woven sections allow movement.
Handle & Grip Details
Flexible woven silver cylinders providing tactile grip; smooth finished charms to prevent snagging during prayer or meditative manipulation.
Craftsmanship Details
Highly skilled hand-wrought wirework. The uniformity of the woven cylinders indicates an experienced 'Kazaz' master using traditional hand-tensioning.
Authentication Indicators
The unique 'knitted' texture of the wire is unmistakable for Trabzon craftsmanship; pure 1000 silver has a whiter, softer appearance than sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
Turkey, specifically associated with the city of Trabzon, where the specialized Art of Kazaziye is a protected cultural heritage.
Era & Period
Contemporary production (post-2000s) based on traditional 16th-century Ottoman Turkish jewelry-making techniques.
Age Estimate
Modern/Current; likely produced within the last 5-10 years based on the crisp detail of the cast charms and cord condition.
Cultural Significance
Represents the fusion of Islamic devotional objects with regional Turkish craftsmanship. The knots symbolize eternal love and protection.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. Minimal tarnish on high points; woven sections remain tight and secure. No visible broken wires or fraying on the inner cord.
Value Estimate
$45.00 - $85.00 USD depending on the specific artisan workshop and total silver weight.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemical dips which can destroy the silk core. Use a soft silver polishing cloth only. Store flat to prevent permanent kinks in the woven wire.
Similar Pieces
Sterling silver cast tassels (stiffer, less detailed); Filigree (Telkari) tassels (more rigid, openwork); Greek Komboloi tassels (usually silk only).
Interesting Facts
Kazaziye is said to have originated from the Lydians and reached its peak during the Ottoman Empire. It is one of the few silver arts that uses 1000-grade silver because sterling is too brittle to knot.