Garland (Har), metal-thread embroidery with coat of arms of Orchha State, Madhya Pradesh, c. late 19th century; Textiles; Accessories

Garland of twisted silver-gilt strips, seperated by rectangular green silk panels embroidered with metal embellishments and surrounded with tinsel. Pendant of green silk with two heraldic lions holding standards above the sanskrit motto of Orchha State, embroidered in metal embellishments. The back of the pendant covered in purple velvet.

Gift of Mrs Elizabeth Quayle

IS.113-1985 Register entry: ' 6 ceremonial necklaces or har 19th century Bundelkhand, Central India. Probably acquired by the grandfather of the donor, Colonel Sir Donald E. Robertson in the second half of the 19th century. See RPs [Registered Papers] for family connections with India.

113: Necklace consisting of chain of floral motifs made of gilt wire, sequins, mounted on cloth, stiffened with paper. Main central motif arms of Datia State with motto Vir dalap Shrandah (Lord of the Brave, Giver of Refuge) beneath.

113a: Ditto. Both a & b have arms in cut out free form

113b, c, d: Ditto. But c & d & e all are similarly constructed. The 'cord of one necklace made of interlocking chain in gilt and cotton tape. The motto enclosed in overall heart shape with pink silk ground on cardboard base, & small [illegible] similarly constructed dividing up the chain length

113e: Necklace or har consisting of set of parallel rows of gilt covered cotton cord with large coat of arms of Orcha State with motto Bindu do Durgameshah 'the giver of the drops of blood has become Lord of the inaccessible regions'. The heraldic device consists of two lions rampant bearing banners but lacking the figure of Devi Vindhyarasini, which should appear between them. The device is gilt wire & sequin decoration on cardboard base covered in green silk on front face and burgundy velvet on rear. 4 smaller plaques divide up the chain.

Bibliography: See C.E. Laund 'Central India State Gazetteer Series, Easter Series (Bundelkhand), vol. VI A [illegible] Lucknow [illegible] 1907, especially pp.ii & between pp.92-94

IS.113E-1985