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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.e
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 bead is shaped like a fish oriented horizontally and facing right. It features a large circular eye and a vertical ridge for gills. Its body is marked by rows of small raised bumps, while a wide tail flares on the left. The metal has a hammered surface, and a small circular opening is visible at the mouth on the right.

Necklace Bead in the Form of a Fish

185–72 BCE

India, Shunga period (185–78 BCE)

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