Christie's. Maharajas & Mughal Magnificence, New York, 19 June 2019
An antique emerald bead, diamond and seed pearl nath, early 20th century
Lot 33. An antique emerald bead, diamond and seed pearl nath, early 20th century. Estimate USD 10,000 - USD 15,000. Price realised USD 40,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2019
The nose ring set with emerald beads, pear and old-cut diamonds, circular rose-cut diamonds, seed pearls, gold, 1 7/8 ins.
Literature: Jaffer 2013, p. 247, ill. p. 276, no. 106.
Exhibited: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York 2014, pp. 76-77
Victoria and Albert Museum, London 2015, p. 119, no. 69
The Miho Museum, Koka 2016, p. 156, no. 120
Grand Palais, Paris 2017, p. 261, no. 193
The Doge’s Palace, Venice 2017, p. 278, no. 191
The Palace Museum, Beijing 2018, p. 296, no. 195
de Young Legion of Honor, San Francisco 2018, p. 181, no. 117.
Note: Nose rings are very popular in most parts of India. Ornate pieces such as the ones offered here would have been worn at elaborate weddings and other formal occasions.