Seljuk, 13th century A.D.

Gold

D: 8.37 cm

Provenance: European private collection, acquired on the European Art market, 2002.

Serial No: 15333

This bracelet is a very beautiful example of Seljuk jewelry from the 13th century.  With its beautifully twisted body, and finely crafted ends (in the shape of snake heads) adorned with fine chisel and niello gold work, this bracelet represents a very high level of craftsmanship.

This bracelet was probably produced by an Anatolian workshop (in modern day Turkey) and not by an Iranian one, considering that at the beginning of the century, the great Seljuk empire fell under the rule of the Mongols, interrupting for some time the extremely rich production of goods from Iran. It is likely that, because of their beauty, craftsmanship and fine materials, this bracelet was worn by an affluent member of society.