Indian Kutch Silver Torque (Varloh or Hansuli)

This robust torque made from thick silver wire and wires wrapped with finer silver wire was worn by a range of women in the Kutch area of Gujarat, including both Hindu and Muslim women.

Such a prominent article of jewellery typically was presented to a bride as part of her dowry by either her father or prospective father-in-law. Torques of this type generally were the centrepiece of a bride’s dowry jewellery.

Of ‘C’ form, it comes apart at the front where it is kept closed with a catch.

Similar examples are illustrated in Untracht (1997, p. 229), Barnard (2008, p. 30) and Borel (1994, p. 135).

The example here is in excellent condition.