Archive Ref: GNMC-ART-024
Century-Old 5-Strand Floral Repoussé Tribal Ceremonial Waistband (Kardhani)
Heavy century-old 5-chain tribal girdle with magnificent double-winged repoussé clasp (L 32 in / 81 cm, Wt 480 g)
Century-old authentic traditional tribal lady's 5-line waistband (Kardhani / Kamarband / Mehkala), forged from a heavy, resilient alloy mix of brass and silver. Characterized by five robust parallel curb-chain lines interwoven through openwork rectangular spacer plaques adorned with raised floral rosettes and foliage. The centerpiece is an ornate, double-winged scalloped buckle richly embellished with floral repoussé motifs and a faceted vertical pin-barrel locking mechanism. Historically worn by tribal women of Odisha and eastern India during sacred marital ceremonies, festivals, and folk assemblies. Substantial, heavy, rare, and extinct antique heirloom jewelry.
Period
Early 20th Century (~100 years)
Provenance
Odisha & Eastern India tribal heirloom adornment craft
Curator's Condition Assessment
Exceptional century-old tribal patina. All 5 curb-chain strands, floral openwork spacer plaques, repoussé central buckle wings, and pin-barrel lock intact. Heavy, rare and extinct.
