Lot 234: A METAL-THREAD EMBROIDERED CEREMONIAL GARLAND (HAR) BEARING THE STATE OF NABHA AND BRITISH ROYAL COATS OF ARMS, 19TH - 20TH CENTURY

A METAL-THREAD EMBROIDERED CEREMONIAL GARLAND (HAR) BEARING THE STATE OF NABHA AND BRITISH ROYAL COATS OF ARMS, 19TH – 20TH CENTURY

This ceremonial garland, known as a har, originates from Punjab and dates to the late 19th or early 20th century. The piece is constructed using ametal-thread embroidery techniques, incorporating gold-toned metallic purl wire and sequins alongside vibrant magenta and green silk thread. The collar consists of a linked openwork chain featuring alternating stylized insects with magenta silk-wrapped bodies and metallic wire wings, and floral quatrefoils with magenta or green silk centres. The central pendant is a large circular heraldic medallion depicting two lions rampant flanking a central crown. Below the crown is a shield-shaped element worked with a green-threaded honeycomb pattern. The medallion is bordered by further stylized insect and floral motifs. The reverse of the garland is finished with a gold-toned metallic foil backing which shows the impressions of the underlying wirework and stitching. The piece is secured at the neckline by brown silk cord ties finished with small tassels.

L: 92cm