**Originally Listed At $800**

Central Asia, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, or Turkmenistan, Turkoman (Turkman) or Tekke peoples, ca. 19th to mid-20th century CE. This is a handsome horse neck collar or breast strap made from leather adorned with gilt silver and carnelian stones. The leather is studded with 5 rows of raised rectangular silver plaques across the entire length and 8 large silver plates, all riveted by brass tacks and threads. The 2 largest central panels contain etched curvilinear patterns and 5 carnelian stones in raised bezels, the 4 cruciform panels have a single carnelian at the center, and end panels have raised beaded motifs and suspension loops for dangling ornaments. A pair or straps sewn to the terminal ends with a brass buckle would have secured this elegant tack to the horse. The Tekke were nomadic people that were skilled riders and silversmiths - a horse with such ornamentation was a sign of an individual's wealth and the great regard and pride they had for their animals. Size: 32" L x 2.25" W (81.3 cm x 5.7 cm); silver quality: 89% to 91%; weight: 544 grams

Provenance: Whisnant Gallery, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA acquired prior to 2000

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#169678

Missing dangling ornaments on terminal ends. Fading to gilt on silver studs and other panels. Leather is stiff with areas of cracking and fraying to straps. Old repair to brass buckle with threads. Patina and toning throughout.