MSI497

LAOS HIGHLAND TRIBAL EAR PLUGS WITH DANGLING FRINGE – HOLLOW SILVER ALLOY (PAIR)

OVERVIEW
Authentic pair of tribal ear plug earrings from Laos, likely originating from southern highland regions such as Attapeu Province. These traditional stretched-ear ornaments feature a rare combination of hollow plug construction with articulated dangling fringe on the front.

OBJECT DETAILS
Type: Ear plugs (stretched earlobe ornaments)
Construction: Hollow shaft with flared front disc
Decoration: Hand-fabricated dangling blade-like fringe
Material: Low silver content alloy (tested)
Technique: Hammered, assembled, wire-linked articulation

MEASUREMENTS
Length: 78 mm (inc. dangling blade-like fringe)
Width: 15 mm
Earlobe hole: approx. 4 mm
Weight (pair): 11.05 grams

CONDITION
Good condition for its age
Not fully intact; some deformation and compression of dangles
Clear signs of prolonged use
Attractive natural aged patina

CULTURAL CONTEXT
These ornaments belong to the highland Southeast Asian tradition where elongated earlobes were a marker of identity and status. The hollow construction reduces weight while maintaining presence, allowing comfortable wear in stretched lobes. The dangling elements add movement and subtle sound, reflecting everyday and ceremonial use within tribal communities across the Laos–Shan cultural zone.

RARITY & SIGNIFICANCE
Rare plug-and-dangle hybrid form
Non-standard, lesser-documented regional variant
Authentic field-used ethnographic jewelry
Increasingly scarce due to the decline of traditional ear-stretching practices

PERIOD
Mid 20th century (circa 1940–1970), with earlier design origins possible

SUMMARY
A distinctive and authentic pair of Laotian highland ear plug ornaments, combining functional body jewelry with kinetic decorative design. A strong collectible example representing regional craftsmanship and cultural identity.

Sold as a pair