Silver-gilt pendant with two linked pentagonal filigree plaques set with turquoises, Yemen, 1850-1900.

Silver-gilt filigree pendant consisting of two flat pentagons, each shaped like a rectangle with a pointed top. Each is made of gilded sheet silver with applied filigree and four tiny pieces of turquoise on each side. There are five loops on the lower edge of each pentagon. Each loop on the lower pentagon holds a filigree leaf, with a loose ball below it. The loops on the upper pentagon are similar, except that the central one holds a disc which supports the lower pentagon. There is a loop for suspension at the top of each pentagon. The loop at the top of the upper pentagon is attached to a short length of loop-in-loop chain with a hook of bent wire at its top. There is a wire ring, open at one side, also attached to the upper loop.

In the 19th century, until their final exodus to Israel in the 1950s, Jewish goldsmiths made most of the silver jewellery in the Yemen. They were particularly renowned for the quality of their filigree work, which was worn and appreciated as much by Muslim as by Jewish women.

This delicate pendant is typical of the kind of fine filigree made by Jewish silversmiths in the 19th century. It would have been one of a pair made to hang either side of the face like earrings. The circular wire may have been fastened into the ear, while the hook at the top was attached to the head covering, to help support its weight.

It was described as an engagement earring worn by Jewish women when it was acquired by the Museum in 1914.

M.106-1914