Antique Hmong Silver Soul Lock Pendant, Laos, ETJ21

For centuries, soul lock pendants have been worn by the Hmong to keep the restless soul from taking flight from the body until the appropriate time arrives. Genuine antique pieces of this size are much sought after and few remain in SE Asia. Made of solid, high grade silver, this pendant is the most substantial of its kind we have seen. It is inscribed with a traditional Hmong design and has a lovely patina. The back of the pendant has some old scratches and the front has minor pitting consistent with its age. It has been mounted on a custom built stand for display. The Hmong are an interesting mountain dwelling people found throughout SE Asian and southern China and are renowned for their silversmith skills and unique designs. They were the first hill tribe group to successfully cultivate opium.

Dimensions

Width: 9.8cm, 4 in
Height: 6.5cm, 2.6 in
Height on stand: 12cm, 4.7 in
Weight: 117 grams
Price: US$795

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