Object Description
Rare Indian gold, ruby and turquoise Sarpech turban ornament
Indian, 19th Century
Sarpech: height 12cm, width 14cm, depth 0.5cm
Case: height 19cm, width 20cm, depth 4cm
Similar to works in the Royal Collection (https://www.rct.uk/collection/11286/turban-ornament) this beautiful ornament is a nineteenth century Indian Sarpech. Crafted from gold, rubies, and turquoises, it is intended as a piece to adorn the front of a turban, although often these fine items of religious jewellery find themselves other purposes. The two side panels towards the base are mounted on hinges, and share a similar design to the central element, with a single ruby in the centre surrounded by rings of turquoise. The long neck of the piece arcs to the left, finishing with a large round and more prominent ruby, like the eye in a bird’s head. With a similar appearance to that of a sword hilt, it comes in a specially fitted case, and is wonderful example of nineteenth century Indian crafts and artistic skill.