Egmeh (Tiara)

Datefirst half of 20th Century

Object GeographyCentral Asia

CultureTurkomen; Teke Tribe; Teke Tribe

MediumSilver, gold, carnelian, cotton, wool

ClassificationMetalwork

ProvenancePurchased by Stephen Wilberding and Ann "Stevie" Wilberding ca. 1984 - 1989; gift to The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 2009.

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

Object numberSN11187.28

In contrast to the head coverings of young girls, married women of some Turkomen tribes wore structural headdresses, supported by frames that were used as foundations for their elaborate jewelry. Though headdress jewelry could be worn while performing daily tasks, an intricate tiara like this one would have adorned a bride at a wedding. The detailed and gilded front contrasts sharply with the silver squares sewn on the fabric portion, since the cloth section would not have been visible when the egmeh was worn.

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