MSI280

Pair of Karen tribe hand-forged “cup” ear plugs in silver & copper alloy (tested medium silver content).

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

Specifications:
– Weight: approx. 9.01 g (4.63 g & 4.71 g each)
– Measurements: L 17 mm x W 27 mm
– Earlobe size: approx. 14 mm (back flare 16 mm)

Condition:
Used – very good for its age with attractive natural patina. One plug has a slightly irregular back flare (not perfectly round, see images); wearable as is or can be easily corrected with minor reshaping. Structurally intact – collectible and displayable.

Description:
Traditional Karen (Galian) hand-forged silver & copper alloy cup plugs, made using time-honored tribal techniques. The alloy—silver mixed with copper—offers strength and durability while developing a rich, warm patina over time. Each piece is individually hammered, shaped, and finished by hand, leaving subtle tool marks that attest to its artisanal origin.

The classic cup form with flared back is designed for stretched earlobes, combining function with understated aesthetic. Among Karen communities, such plugs were part of daily wear, symbolizing identity, maturity, and continuity of tradition, often passed down through generations.

Lightly cleaned to preserve detail while maintaining original patina.

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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.