Armlet
18th century (made)
Artist/Maker | |
Place of origin |
Armlets such as these extremely fine examples in gold are worn on the upper arm. Known as Vanki, the shape of this type of armlet with a double ‘V’ is a south Indian design. At the front in the centre of the armlet is a kirtimukha or ‘Face of Glory’. This ferocious lion-like mask is often seen in Hindu temple architecture, where it has a protective function. On either side of the mask is a peacock.
The armlets are thought to have been in the collection of John Johnstone of Alva in Scotland (1734-1795), who served with Robert Clive at the Battle of Plassey in 1757.
The armlets are thought to have been in the collection of John Johnstone of Alva in Scotland (1734-1795), who served with Robert Clive at the Battle of Plassey in 1757.
Object details
Categories | |
Object type | |
Materials and techniques | Gold, set with rubies |
Brief description | One of a pair of gold armlets from South India dating from the eighteenth century. |
Physical description | One of a pair of gold armlets from South India dating from the eighteenth century. |
Dimensions |
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Credit line | Supported by the Friends of the V&A |
Summary | Armlets such as these extremely fine examples in gold are worn on the upper arm. Known as Vanki, the shape of this type of armlet with a double ‘V’ is a south Indian design. At the front in the centre of the armlet is a kirtimukha or ‘Face of Glory’. This ferocious lion-like mask is often seen in Hindu temple architecture, where it has a protective function. On either side of the mask is a peacock. The armlets are thought to have been in the collection of John Johnstone of Alva in Scotland (1734-1795), who served with Robert Clive at the Battle of Plassey in 1757. |
Associated object | |
Bibliographic reference | Barnard, Nick, Indian Jewellery: The V&A Collection London: V&A Publishing, 2008 Number: ISBN 9781851774838
p. 118, pl. 6.13
John Guy, 'Gold in Asian' in Art Exhibitions Australia and National Museums of Australia, Gold and Civilisation, Sydney and Canberra, 2001, p.176 |
Collection | |
Accession number | IS.28:2-1997 |
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Record created | November 8, 2002 |
Record URL |
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