The design of this pendant is of a taweez box:
Taweez is the Urdu word for amulet or talisman. Do a search for it and you will see that there are many kinds: taweez for love, taweez for health, taweez for prosperity, etc. Also spelled Ta'wiz or Tawiz, the use of talismans, amulets and charms are both allowed and forbidden by opposing Muslim teachers. Those against them, warn at how easily one can stray into clear-cut wrongful behavior, like worshiping other gods or putting faith into something that may not come from God. But, for the believers, their taweez will have holy writings or prayers embedded inside the piece.
In this case, it looks like the left top side of the pendant could be pried open to insert something. I have no idea if there is anything in it or not, but it doesn't feel like there is. The triangle shape is also considered to have protective powers and is seen in the embroidery and other designs of the region.
This pendant would qualify as a "silver" piece, although it is mixed in with other metals, most likely copper and brass. The value is more in the workmanship than in the metal content. Decorative elements have been punched and stamped on the front of the pendant.
Please note that one of the dangles is missing (4th from the left).
Estimated age: early 1900's
Dimensions:
4.75" wide x 3.75" long (including dangles)
Metric: 11.5 x 9.5 cm
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Last photo shows the back.
Shipping is free worldwide on this pendant.
Afghanistan has been at the heart of the crossroads for the Silk Road for centuries. Nomads and generations of ethnic groups have thrived on trade and beautiful handicraft skills. Textiles, embroidery and carpet weaving continue to represent a plethora of skills that extend on into metal work, wood work, and ceramics. Designs reflect both the beauty of nature and life of spirit in choice of colors and fluidity of the design.
Afghan Tribal Arts has been working with Afghan artists for more than 20 years. Handcarved semi-precious beads are the core focus of the business, but we also have a huge inventory of old and new textiles, carvings and metal work. Visit our shop here on Etsy to see our beautiful treasures!
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