Gold men’s earrings from Rajasthan, India, called gokhru.
The gokhru can be decorated with a chiseled pattern or can be covered with thorns (resembling their Himachali counterpart types, which are worn exclusively by women). This decoration imitates the ball-like blossoms of the Babul tree (Acacia Arabica) which is believed to be a favorite spirit haunt.
The design with three balls can be traced back to Assyrian and Babylonian examples.
From mid 20th century.
Dimensions: 2,8 x 2,5 cm
The earrings have a final loop that has to go through the earlobe hole, so slightly stretched earlobe holes are needed. A silver pin is included to be able to secure the earrings.
Weight: 11,7 gr
Literature:
“Earrings. Ornamental identity and beauty in India”, Ganguly, Waltraud, B.R. Publishing Corporation, 2007
“A world of earrings. Africa, Asia America”, van Cutsem, Anne, Skira, 2001
“Indian Jewellery”, Barnard, Nick, V&A publishing, timeless books, Delhi, 2008
“Ethnic jewellery from Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands”, The Pepin Press, 2002
“The golden smile of India”, Van Gelder, Bernardette, ACC Art Books, 2018, p. 31
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