Lot 40B
East Asia, northwest China, Xinjiang Uygur, ca. 20th century CE. A striking Xinjiang Uygur necklace composed of a central openwork serpentine lock charm pendant, suspended from a series of silver-plated nickel silver chains adorned with symbolic charms. The finely carved pendant depicts three robed figures, likely representing the Sanxing (Three Stars) - Fu, Lu, and Shou - deities of fortune, prosperity, and longevity in Chinese tradition. The lock form itself is a traditional protective amulet, symbolically 'locking in' blessings and warding away misfortune. From the pendant radiate multiple chains hung with an array of miniature fish, bells, beads, and pierced medallions, including a central round coin-like disc bearing a raised dragon in full relief. The fish, a traditional emblem of abundance and harmony, appear in several places, each cast with finely textured scales. Size of serpentine pendant: 3.9" W x 2.8" H (9.9 cm x 7.1 cm); from top of pendant to bottom bell: 8" L (20.3 cm); of strand: 21" L (53.3 cm)
The bells and pendants would have produced a gentle sound when worn, a feature often associated with auspiciousness and protection from harmful spirits.
Such necklaces combined talismanic purpose with ornamental appeal, integrating local Uygur craft with broader Chinese symbolic vocabulary. The harmonious pairing of carved serpentine and bright silver-plated ornaments exemplifies 20th century ethnic jewelry traditions from Xinjiang, reflecting both cultural heritage and enduring beliefs in the protective and life-enhancing power of amulets.
Exhibited: 2023, August 4-November 3. "Looking Again" exhibit by Alex J. Pena at the Ralph T Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA.
Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, received as a gift on March 25, 2020; ex-Patricia M. Newman
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#196391
- Condition: Intact, excellent, and wearable with good detail and subtle patina in areas.
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