MSI570

OLD CENTRAL FLORES OM’E MBULU FERTILITY EARRINGS (PAIR)
Traditional Bridewealth Jewelry | Lio Culture, Wea Region, Indonesia

Description
A pair of traditional hanging OM’E MBULU fertility earrings from Central Flores, from the Lio cultural area (Wea region). These ceremonial ornaments were integral to traditional bridewealth exchanges and symbolized fertility, lineage continuity, and family prestige. More than personal adornment, such earrings functioned as social valuables circulating between clans during marriage alliances and major rites of passage.

Cultural & Historical Context
In the highlands of Central Flores, OM’E MBULU earrings accompanied women at key life transitions, especially marriage. Passed between families, they embodied ancestral continuity and social bonds. Over generations, their surface acquired a natural patina from ritual handling, movement, and ceremonial use—each mark recording a chapter in the object’s social life.

Material & Technique
Copper alloy (brass tested).
Handworked sheet metal with raised bosses and stamped rosette motifs. Traditional cotton fiber (cotton thread).

Origin
Central Flores, Lio cultural region (Wea area), Indonesia.

Measurements & Weight (Pair)
Length: 45 mm
Width: 35 mm
Weight: 16.99 g (pair)

Condition
Used, very good for age. Fully intact. Structurally sound with attractive, original patina. No modern alterations observed.

Sale
Sold as a pair.

Reference:

*- A WORLD OF EARRINGS AFRICA – ASIA – AMERICA – PAGE: 285 - BY ANN VAN CUTSEM – SKIRA

*- ETHNIC JEWELLERY FROM INDONESIA - PAGES: 234 ~ 235 - BRUCE W. CARPENTER – PHILLIP HEURTAULT - DR. ANTONIO J. GUERREIRO – EDM

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