The traditional jewellery of the Syrian region, which incorporated much of Palestine, Jordan and Lebanon as well as Syria itself in the 19th century, shows influences from a wide range of sources, reflecting Syria’s strong trading traditions and central location. The jewellery worn in towns, which is often Ottoman or western in style, is frequently very different from that worn by the nomadic Bedouin, whose characteristic silver jewellery is much better known today.

This pendant was described as a ‘brooch for fastening the chemise’ when it was acquired by the Museum in 1873, and the local name was recorded as ‘showki’. It has a sharp double-ended hook on the back which would have been hooked into either side of the owner’s shift to keep it closed at the front of her dress. It was bought for one shilling and sixpence at the International Exhibition, London, 1872.