Indian Cast Silver ‘Rope’ Anklet or Bracelet

This splendid, sculptural tribal-style anklet (but now readily wearable as a bracelet) has been cast in solid silver in Gujarat, India.  It has been cast as if it is composed of thickly plaited rope.

As a bracelet, the item readily slips over the wrist. But traditionally worn as an anklet by tribal women in rural areas, it was opened up by unscrewing two screws using a screw driver, then applied around the ankle, and then screwed closed again. The manner of closing and difficulty of opening suggests that such an anklet was not meant to be taken off all that often and that the wearer undoubtedly would have slept with it on.

Geoffroy-Schneiter (2011, p. 109) illustrates a related pair.

The anklet/bracelet here has a wonderful patina and its contours have been worn smooth by time and use.