Hair ornament (2) - India

This pair of elegant metal hairpins, characterized by their distinctive 'scissor' structure with a double concentric spiral, represents a rare example of female ornamentation from the northern regions of the Indian subcontinent, likely from the Himalayan area (Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand) or from tribal areas of North India. The spiral shape, crafted from a flattened metal sheet and handmade, alludes to symbolic motifs related to protection, continuity, and the cycle of life, recurring in the decorative repertoire of mountain populations and ancient nomadic communities along the Silk Road.
The double pin joint structure, made using a single central rivet, suggests a function that is both ornamental and functional: the two tips were inserted into the hair to support or secure hairstyles, while the large spiral discs remained visibly on the outside, transforming into elements of strong aesthetic impact. The entirely manual craftsmanship, combined with the slight irregularities of the metal, indicates an artisanal production from a rural or tribal context. The material appears to be a copper or zinc-based alloy, possibly containing antimony, which is common in traditional jewelry from northern India and the Himalayas due to its lightness and durability over time.
The two specimens, differing in size but identical in construction and symbolism, demonstrate an extremely distinctive ornamental taste that is now difficult to find. Surface oxidation, irregular patina, and traces of wear confirm their genuine use as hair accessories and contribute to the overall authenticity of the set.
Based on formal, technical characteristics and known areas of comparison in the field of tribal jewelry from South Asia, the pair can be reasonably placed between the late 19th century and the early decades of the 20th century, within a cultural context linked to mountain populations and trade routes between the Himalayas, Punjab, and the Upper Ganges.
15 cm x 11 cm;
cm 14 x 12

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