COLLIER in yellow gold 750 thousandths holding seven slightl - Lot 139

COLLIER in yellow gold 750 thousandths holding seven slightly falling motifs enameled in polychrome on both sides. One features peacocks, the central pendant Vishnupada footprints (Vishnu footprints), the other six tree-of-life motifs surmounted by birds, the central one marked in a flower with the name Shrinathji surrounded by two peacocks and flowers. Each of the seven motifs now holds small cultured or imitation pearls in tassels. Probably 19th century Indian work. (Worn and missing enamel). Length : 41.5 cm Gross weight: 158.8 g The name Shrinathji is inscribed in Devanagari characters used to write Sanskrit (ancient Indo-Aryan language). Shrinathji is the name given to Krishna during one of his manifestations, when he takes the form of a seven-year-old child. Jewelry and amulets containing representations of Vishnupada and Shrinathji were worn by devotees at the Shrinathji shrine in Nathdvara, Rajasthan. A model of similar motifs: Bernadette Van Gelder, Traditional Indian jewellery, beautiful people, p. 274-275. Bibl. Susan Stronge, Nima Smith and J.C. Harle, A Golden treasury, jewellery from the Indian subcontinent, p. 87 and 91.