Four hand-forged silver Mapuche chaway (earrings). Two in the form of a bell with etched design, one larger with pierced accents. Two in the form of a rounded bell with etched design and danglingpendants, one larger. All with hoop closures. Chile, Mapuche tribe, c. 1900
Total weight: 46g

The Mapuche are largest indigenous tribe in Chile. Their jewellery is symbolic and used as a form of communication, worn mainly in ceremonial settings. The most popular pieces include earrings and breast pins, and were thought to have magical properties protecting the wearer. The apex of the craft was reached at the end of the 19th/beginning of the 20th c. Piecesfrom this era are rare as the silver pieces were often melted or pawned.

Condition report available upon request.