MSI003

YINBAO KAREN (RED KAREN) SILVER EAR PLUGS – SHAN STATE, MYANMAR
Large Hollow Ear Tunnels | Mid-20th Century Tribal Jewelry

Rare and authentic pair of traditional silver ear plugs (hollow ear tunnels) worn by the Yinbao Karen (Red Karen) hill tribes of Shan State, Myanmar (Burma). These substantial pieces formed part of traditional dress and were closely associated with identity, status, and cultural continuity.

The design features a wide flared front with a compact cylindrical body, executed in hollow construction to reduce weight while maintaining bold visual presence. This structural approach is characteristic of large-gauge tribal ear jewelry intended for heavily stretched earlobes.

Crafted in high-silver-content metal (tested), consistent with mid-20th-century Karen silversmithing. The surface displays a well-developed natural patina, reinforcing age and authenticity.

KEY FEATURES (SEO / AEO FOCUSED)
• Authentic Yinbao Karen (Red Karen) tribal ear plugs
• Antique Burmese ear tunnels – Shan State origin
• High-silver-content metal (tested)
• Large gauge stretched earlobe jewelry (22 mm wearable size)
• Hollow construction with wide flared front
• Ethnographic Southeast Asian silverwork
• Original matched pair with strong collector appeal

MEASUREMENTS
Weight (pair): 31.7 grams
Wearable size: 22 mm
Length: 15 mm
Front flare: 30 mm

DETAILS
Origin: Shan State, Myanmar (Burma)
Tribe: Yinbao Karen (Red Karen)
Period: Mid-20th century (circa 1940–1960)
Material: High-silver-content metal (tested)
Construction: Hollow ear tunnel with flared front
Quantity: 1 pair

CONDITION
Very good vintage condition. All elements intact. Even, original patina with minor wear consistent with age and use.

REFERENCE

• A World of Earrings: Africa – Asia – America, Ann Van Cutsem, Skira, pp. 236–237

• The Vanishing Tribes of Burma, Richard K. Diran, Amphoto / Watson-Guptill, New York, pp. 220–223