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"Treasury of the World"

Highlights of The al-Sabah Collection

Explore The Jeweled Arts of India


Pendant
Pendant
LNS 1131 J
Fabricated from gold, the front worked in kundan technique and set with rubites and diamonds; the back gold sheet, engraved; with pendant pearl
Height excluding pendant pearl 38 mm; height including pendant pearl 49mm; width 34 mm; thickness 4mm
India, Mughal or Deccan, c. 1st half 17th century AD
Photography by Bruce M. White

Engraved Gold-Backed Jewels

One of the oldest techniques for embellishing metals is engraving designs onto their surface. This technique, typically accomplished with specially ground chisel-like tools called "gravers," may seem rudimentary but requires talent and a great deal of practice for satisfactory results.

Although enameling, for example, is much better known and more amply represented in the adornment of the backs of Indian jewelry pieces, the examples presented in the exhibition demonstrate that engraving was practiced at a very high level. This skill is not surprising, since the enamels themselves start with the engraving of designs onto the precious metal. Especially fine and reflective of the broader artistic styles of the period is the engraving on the backs of the pendants with their graceful renditions of flowering plants.

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