MSI272

Pair of Karen tribe copper & silver alloy (tested low silver content) hand-forged “cup” ear plugs – old, used, original.

Period: First half of the 20th century
Origin: Thailand–Myanmar (Burma) border region

Specifications:
– Weight: approx. 17.62 g (8.45 g & 9.17 g each)
– Measurements: L 20 mm x W 31 mm
– Earlobe size: approx. 15 mm (back flare 19 mm)

Condition:
Used – very good for its age with natural patina and wear. One plug is missing half of the back flare (see images); still wearable using an O-ring, or restorable with a minor repair. Structurally intact – collectible and displayable.

Description:
Traditional Karen (Galian) hand-forged copper & silver alloy cup plugs, crafted by tribal silversmiths using time-honored techniques. Formed from a copper-dominant alloy enriched with silver, then shaped by hammering and hand-finishing, each piece retains subtle tool marks that reflect its artisanal origin. The flared cup design is both functional and aesthetic, created for stretched earlobes and long-term wear.

Among Karen communities, such plugs were not occasional ornaments but essential daily adornment, signifying identity, maturity, and continuity of tradition. Often passed down through generations, they embody both personal history and cultural heritage.

Lightly cleaned to preserve detail while maintaining original patina.

References:
– People of the Golden Triangle – pp. 61, 71 – Paul & Elaine Lewis – River Books
– A World of Earrings: Africa, Asia, America – pp. 236–237 – Ann Van Cutsem – Skira
– The Vanishing Tribes of Burma – p. 121 – Richard K. Diran – Amphoto / Watson-Guptill
– From the Hands of the Hills – pp. 82, 93, 96 – Margaret Campbell – Thai Hillcraft Foundation

Sold as a pair.