Late Ottoman Chest or Head Ornament

Late Ottoman Chest or Head OrnamentThis is a rare ornament probably from Anatolia in Turkey from the first half of the twentieth century. It has a triple row of handmade chains from which hang hand or tulip shaped dangles. The three chains connect on either side to boteh shaped finials. The finials most likely had hooks to attach the ends to a headdress or to the front of a dress. At some point in this piece's history the headdress was converted into a bib necklace by sawing off the

This is a rare ornament probably from Anatolia in Turkey from the first half of the twentieth century. It has a triple row of handmade chains from which hang hand or tulip-shaped dangles.  The three chains connect on either side to boteh-shaped finials. The finials most likely had hooks to attach the ends to a headdress or to the front of a dress.  

At some point in this piece's history the headdress was converted into a bib necklace by sawing off the hooks on the finials and attaching a hook at one end and a ring on the other. So, in effect, the ornament was recycled into a lovely bib necklace. This piece is made of low-grade silver. Most of the jump rings are soldered shut, so the maker spent time and effort to make this piece.  It is in reasonably good condition.

• The wearable length is 43 cm 17"
• Bib depth 7.5 cm or 3 "
• Weight is 56 g.

For more Ottoman jewelry, please visit the Turkish Collection.