Amulet Breastplate (Tumar)

Date1880-1920

Object GeographyCentral Asia

MediumSilver, gold, carnelian

Dimensions10 3/4 x 9 3/4 x 1 1/4 in. (27.3 x 24.8 x 3.2 cm)

ClassificationsMetalwork

Credit LineGift of Mr. Stephen Van C. Wilberding, 2009

Object numberSN11187.6

Holding prayers or other sacred objects, tumar amulets can range in size from a few inches to more than a foot; they vary considerably in decoration as well. Here, one is considerably more embellished, with ancestor motifs standing along the upper edge, capturing the organic elements of the world in its intricate patterning, while the other exhibits a classic simplicity.

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