Archive Ref: GNMC-ART-048
Century-Old Hand-Chased Brass Tribal Anklets (Pair - Pahuda / Painri)
Magnificent century-old cast brass tribal anklet pair with hand-chased chevron, dot, and banded geometric motifs, crafted for ritual wedding dances (Weight 750 grams)
Authentic century-old pair of traditional tribal brass anklets (known regionally as Painri, Pahuda, or Banki Khadu), cast and hand-beaten circa early 20th century in Eastern India (Odisha tribal belt). Characterized by their ergonomic oval/boat-hull silhouette, gently flared outer curvature, and hollow interior profile meticulously crafted to be lightweight, allowing graceful daily movement and spirited folk dancing without burdening the wearer. The exterior surface is richly ornamented with fine parallel hatched striations, transverse divider bands, and delicate geometric punch-marks hammered by master tribal metalsmiths. In traditional tribal culture, such anklets were presented as sacred bridal trousseau and dowry (Jautuka) heirlooms bestowed from mother to daughter upon marriage, symbolizing marital fidelity, ancestral blessing, and rhythmic harmony. Today, authentic antique examples have become exceedingly scarce and vanishing ornaments, preserved here in pristine museum-grade condition with natural aged dark olive-bronze patination and historic ethnographic wear.
Period
Early 20th Century (~100 years)
Dimensions
Length: approx 12-14 cm (Inner: approx 8.5 x 6.5 cm)
Provenance
Odisha & Eastern India traditional tribal bridal trousseau (Jautuka dowry heirloom)
Curator's Condition Assessment
Remarkable century-old preservation. Matched pair intact and structurally sound, retaining original oval contours, hand-chased hatch lines, transverse accent bands, and authentic dark aged brass patina with natural ethnographic wear.
