MSI363

PAIR OF TRADITIONAL SILVER ALLOY EAR TUNNELS (PLUGS) – LAHU SHI & KAREN HILL-TRIBES
GOLDEN TRIANGLE (LAOS – THAILAND – MYANMAR) – EARLY 20TH CENTURY

Authentic hand-fabricated ear tunnels (plugs) from Lahu Shi and Karen hill-tribe communities of the Golden Triangle region, dating to the first half of the 20th century. These substantial double-flare forms were worn in stretched earlobes and functioned as powerful markers of maturity, beauty, social status, and ethnic identity within highland Southeast Asian cultures.

The design reflects a balance of function and symbolism: the flared ends secure the piece in place while presenting a bold, sculptural profile. Subtle irregularities and surface variations confirm traditional handwork, typical of village-based metalworking practices preserved across Laos, northern Thailand, and Myanmar.

Crafted from medium-grade silver alloy XRF tested, the pair exhibits a natural aged patina consistent with prolonged use and careful preservation. Such examples are increasingly uncommon in matched pairs, particularly in this size and condition, and are highly regarded within ethnographic and body jewelry collecting fields.

Material: Silver alloy (approx. 75%, XRF tested)
Culture / Tribe: Lahu Shi & Karen hill-tribes
Region: Golden Triangle – Laos / Thailand / Myanmar – Southeast Asia
Period: Early 20th century (circa 1900–1950)

Weight: 26.93 grams per pair (approx. 13.5g each)
Dimensions: Length 35 mm × Width 22 mm
Earlobe Size: 17 mm (Back flare 19 mm | Front flare 23 mm)

Condition: Very good for age – fully intact, clean, wearable, collectible, and displayable. Shows consistent aged patina and clear evidence of hand fabrication (see images).

Lightly cleaned to preserve detail while maintaining original patina

Reference:
“From the Hands of the Hills” by Margaret Campbell, The Thai Hillcraft Foundation, p.203

Sold as a pair