Hand-Engraved Peacock Motif Silver Bangle Bracelet
Jewelry (Bangle Bracelet) · Unidentified workshop, likely South Asian (Indian) or Southeast Asian origin. Often produced by independent silversmiths or regional jewelry houses such as those in Delhi or Jaipur known for intricate chasing work.
Pattern: Peacock Plumage / Bird of Paradise decorative pattern, featuring repetitive 'eye' motifs and stylized avian silhouettes. No specific catalog name, as these are often artisan-unique.
Type
Jewelry (Bangle Bracelet)
Maker
Unidentified workshop, likely South Asian (Indian) or Southeast Asian origin. Often produced by independent silversmiths or regional jewelry houses such as those in Delhi or Jaipur known for intricate chasing work.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver (.800-.900). The yellowish tint in the image suggests either heavy tarnish, local lighting conditions, or a silver-plated brass/nickel base (Silver Plate).
Dimensions
Approximately 15-20mm in width with a diameter of roughly 6.5cm (standard adult female wrist size). Estimated weight: 25-45 grams depending on whether the core is hollow or solid metal.
Description
This is a wide, statement bangle bracelet featuring a central peacock motif. The peacock is a symbol of immortality and beauty, rendered here with a flowing tail that wraps around the circumference of the band. The engraving uses stippling and line work to create a sense of movement in the feathers. The piece has a substantial, heavy look that balances traditional folk art with wearable modern fashion.
Key Features
Stylized peacock head and neck at the focal point; repetitive 'peacock eye' pattern on the tail; hand-stippled background; wide, slightly convex profile.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Silver (.800-.900). The yellowish tint in the image suggests either heavy tarnish, local lighting conditions, or a silver-plated brass/nickel base (Silver Plate).
Finish & Decoration
Extensive hand-engraved and chased decoration. The pattern features a stylized peacock with a long, textured tail consisting of repetitive circles and stippled 'eye' details. The finish appears oxidized in the recesses to highlight the engraving.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No marks are visible in the photograph. Expected marks on the interior would be '925', 'STERLING', or a regional numerical fineness stamp. Many artisanal pieces from this region are frequently unmarked.
Construction Details
Likely die-struck or cast into a basic band shape and then hand-finished with chasing tools and engravers. The rounded edges suggest a comfort-fit interior. It appears to be a solid, non-hinged 'slip-on' style bangle.
Functional Features
Slip-on circular design without a clasp. Rigid construction intended to be worn alone or stacked. The wide surface area provides a canvas for the detailed narrative engraving.
Handle & Grip Details
Smooth interior 'grip' surface for comfort against the skin; exterior is textured by the engraving which provides a tactile, non-slip surface when handling.
Craftsmanship Details
The decoration is achieved through 'chasing' (manipulating the surface with a hammer and punch). The density of the pattern suggests a practiced hand, though it is a 'production' piece rather than a 'masterwork' unique commission.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic unevenness of hand-engraving (which is a sign of artisan work rather than machine-stamping); lack of hallmarks is common for regional silver of this type; wear patterns on the edges suggest a softer metal like silver rather than steel.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely India or Southeast Asia. These regions have a millenia-old tradition of peacock-themed silverwork, often using 'Kutch' or 'Chitai' engraving techniques where the metal is pushed to create relief from the front.
Era & Period
Modern Contemporary with Traditional influence. The design utilizes ancient peacock motifs (significant in Indian and Persian art) but the execution and form align with mid-to-late 20th-century tourist trade or export jewelry.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990 based on the style of the engraving and the thickness of the band. It mimics traditional antique styles but lacks the deep 'repoussé' depth seen in 19th-century pieces.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and the global jewelry trade. Such pieces were highly popular during the 'Bohemian' fashion trends of the 1970s and remain staples of ethnic silver jewelry collections.
Condition Notes
Overall Good condition. Significant tarnish/patina is visible, giving it a golden or brassy hue; this requires cleaning to determine if it is solid silver or plating. Minor surface scratches consistent with use. No visible cracks or dents.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $40 to $120. Factors include the actual silver weight (melt value), whether it is plated or sterling, and the complexity of the hand-engraving. Sterling examples from known workshops command higher prices.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and a dedicated silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Because of the deep engraving, a soft-bristled toothbrush should be used to remove tarnish from the recesses. Avoid chemical 'dips' which can strip away the intentional oxidation that gives the pattern depth.
Similar Pieces
Thai Karen Hill Tribe silver bangles (usually higher purity, more matte/hammered); Victorian 'aesthetic movement' bangles (usually hinged and featuring birds/bamboo); Modern machine-stamped silver bangles (perfectly symmetrical, thinner).
Interesting Facts
In Indian culture, the peacock is the national bird and represents the protector, often associated with the goddess Lakshmi (wealth) and Saraswati (wisdom). Silver bangles are often given as traditional gifts during festivals and weddings.