Gold Hinged Makara Bangle,

South India or Goa, 19th century

This fine, two-part, hinged bracelet is of high-grade gold sheet over a lac core. It is in the form of two dragon-like makaras. Four inlaid red stones comprise the pairs of eyes for each makara. Gold bracelets with makara terminals are known in India but this example is more unusual than most. Its texture and spikiness, particularly the small horns or spikes on the crests of the makara’s heads are an unusual and striking feature.

The unusual nature of this piece might suggest that it does not come from Madras in South India, as most are thought to have come, but from Goa.

The screwing mechanism that holds the two halves of the bracelet together does so firmly.

External diameter: 7.4cm, internal diameter: 5.2cm, weight: 32.65g

Carved red lacquer snuff bottle, China, circa 1750-1800