Ancient Southeast Asia, Thailand, Nong Han District, Ban Na Di culture, early Bronze Age, mortuary phase 1A, ca. 1300 to 900 BCE. A gorgeous discoid bangle, hand-carved from a mottled black granite with pale yellow inclusions, with a wide body boasting smooth surfaces and an interior ridge which projects outward on both sides. Each cuff ridge has a small, flared lip on the exterior rim with a couple of faint carving grooves beneath. The ancient people of Ban Na Di were hunter-gatherers who lived near the large, fertile waters of northern Lake Kumphawapi. Bracelets like this example held a ceremonial significance as a symbol of power and prestige. Though their use by the living is uncertain, numerous archaeological excavations have unearthed bodies adorned in dozens of similar bangles along with shell beads, clay figurines, and ivory bracelets. A stunning example replete with expert craftsmanship and an elegant presentation. Custom museum-quality display stand included. Size: 4.2" in Diameter (10.7 cm); 5.2" H (13.2 cm) on included custom stand.

For a stylistically-similar Ban Na Di bangle made from slate, please see: Higham, Charles. "Early Cultures of Mainland Southeast Asia." Amarin Printing and Publishing Public Co., Ltd., Thailand, 2002, p. 139.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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.

#137697

Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, minor nicks to interior ridge and exterior peripheries, and some minor scuff marks, otherwise intact and excellent. Light earthen deposits throughout.