Old Nuristani Tribal Jewelry Torc Necklace
This ornate old Tribal Jewelry Torc Necklace was handcrafted in the early 1900's in the Nooristan (Nuristan) region of the Hindu Kush - a mountain pass located between the Indus River Valley and the Himalayas.
It is old tribal jewelry - not a new reproduction.
MEASUREMENTS (1 inch = 2.54 cm):
Size = 15 inches inner neckline circumference (relatively slender neck)
Weight = 14.3 oz
Shipping Weight = 1 pound + 4 oz
Front Drop = 9 inches (distance from the upper and lower edge of necklace at center front)
Material = Mixed metals, faceted beads, old coin in center of large lower pendant
A torc neck-ring is a distinctive style of choker necklace
that has been worn throughout Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent for
centuries.
Designs vary from very simple to over-the-top opulent.
This torc is one of the more ornate, studded with colorful
beads, swirling filigree, and clattering dangles.
Studded with colorful beads, flowing dangles, and elaborate metal work, this torc has an integrated hinge-clasp at the back that opens fully, allowing the neck to slide through for a secure fit.
It is in excellent, collectible condition, with mild wear patterns and a warm age patina remaining so many years.
A similar Nuristani
(Nooristani) Torc is pictured on page 184 of Wolf-Dieter Seiwert's seminal book
on Tribal Jewelry, "Treasures from the Bir Collection." Perfect for
wearing, collecting, and displaying as a unique object of artisan-ship.
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About NURISTAN (Noristan, Nooristan, Nurestan): Nuristan is
a remote region located within the Hindu Kush mountain passes in today's eastern Afghanistan and Pakistan.
In earlier times, the Hindu Kush provided a strategic
route to merchants and travelers going between the East and West along
the Old Silk Road.
Merchants and traders brought cultural and artistic
influences from far and wide to Nuristan, which were incorporated into their surprisingly-cosmopolitan crafts, fashion,
and jewelry. (c)