Code: NECK107

OBJECT STUDY

Three cast brass head forms hang in rigid lateral sequence at the necklace's center. Each cranium is volumetric, hollow-feeling in proportion, with incised facial features: a pronounced triangular nose, closed horizontal eye slits, and a scored lower register suggesting teeth. Surface patina is deep amber-bronze with darkening in the recessed line work, consistent with age and handling. Minor casting irregularities visible across all three crowns. Lateral attachment loops are integrated into the outer two heads. The strand is composed of barrel-cut natural coral beads, warm orange-red with visible surface pitting, old fracture lines, and dark inclusions throughout. One silver-toned bead spacer interrupts the strand mid-length. Closure is raw twisted plant-fiber cord, fraying at the terminal ends. Three turquoise-matrix roundels and one yellow disc bead separate the coral from the brass forms at center. The Naga peoples of Northeast India traditionally awarded such head-form ornaments to warriors as markers of prestige within headhunting ritual culture, primarily 19th century.

CONSTRUCTION DETAILS

• Metal: cast brass, three figural head pendants
• Beads: natural barrel coral, hand-drilled
• Accent beads: turquoise matrix roundels, yellow disc bead
• Closure: raw plant-fiber cord, tied
• Length: 63 cm
• Origin: Northeast India, Naga peoples, 19th century