Artwork Page for Necklace Bead in the Form of a Fish

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Necklace Bead in the Form of a Fish

185–72 BCE

India, Shunga period

(185–78 BCE)
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Medium
gold repoussé with granulation
Credit Line
John L. Severance Fund 1973.39.d
Public Domain
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Location
242A Ancient India
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Description

Jewelry in ancient India often consisted of elements associated with water, such as fish and other aquatic plants and animals. Since water is essential for life, imagery that connotes water is life-affirming, or auspicious, and therefore appropriate adornment.
A gold, fish-shaped bead is oriented horizontally. A flared, flat tail is on the left, while a rounded head with a protruding circular mouth is on the right. The central body features a textured, repoussé surface flecked with small, raised spheres. Tiny holes for stringing are located near the tail and behind the head. The ornament has a warm, yellow tone and an irregular, hand-worked quality.

Necklace Bead in the Form of a Fish

185–72 BCE

India, Shunga period (185–78 BCE)

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