MSI494

Pair of silver Yao (also used by Hmong, Mien, and Lahu) hill-tribe bent arrow-shaped earrings.

Dating to the first half of the 20th century, these earrings are crafted in high silver content (tested), typical of upland silversmith traditions across the Golden Triangle region (Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, and Southwest China, North Vietnam). The distinctive bent arrow form reflects both minimalism and symbolic design, associated with protection, direction, and identity in hill-tribe adornment.

Sourced by us at origin, this pair retains a natural patina and light surface wear consistent with age and use.

Specifications:
– Weight: approx. 17.18 g (8.6 g each)
– Measurements: L 24 mm x W 28 mm
– Earlobe hole size: approx. 4 mm

Condition:
Very good for its age – fully intact – usable, collectible, and displayable (see images). Minor wear consistent with traditional use.

Lightly cleaned to preserve detail while maintaining original patina.

References:
– People of the Golden Triangle – p. 60 – Paul & Elaine Lewis – River Books
– A World of Earrings: Africa, Asia, America – p. 232 – Ann Van Cutsem – Skira
– The Jewelry of Southeast Asia – p. 70, image no. 156 – Anne Richter – Thames & Hudson
– The Art of Silver Jewellery – From the Minorities of China, the Golden Triangle, Mongolia & Tibet – p. 91 – René Van der Star Collection – Skira
– The Vanishing Tribes of Burma – pp. 39–41 – Richard K. Diran – Amphoto / Watson-Guptill
– From the Hands of the Hills – pp. 161, 162, 187 – Margaret Campbell – Thai Hillcraft Foundation

Sold as a pair.