MSI415

TRADITIONAL GLASS EAR PLUG — SHAN STATE, MYANMAR

OVERVIEW
Authentic small glass ear plug (ear spool), hand-worked and worn as part of traditional body adornment in northern Myanmar. Compact and well-balanced, preserved in very good condition with visible age wear.

BACKGROUND
In Shan State and surrounding highland regions, stretched earlobes were traditionally adorned with plugs made from locally used and traded materials. Glass—introduced through regional trade networks, likely including Indian sources—was valued for its luminosity, durability, and accessibility.

ORIGIN & CULTURE

• Region: Shan State, Northern Myanmar

• Cultural context: Ethnographic body adornment (Shan and neighboring communities)

• Trade context: Consistent with Southeast Asian trade glass circulation

• Period: Likely late 19th to early 20th century

MATERIAL & CHARACTERISTICS

• Material: Glass (consistent with traditional trade glass)

• Color: Translucent pale blue / aqua with soft white internal swirl inclusions

• Craft: Hand-worked, with softened edges and natural internal variation

• Form: Functional ear plug with compact, wearable proportions

CONDITION
Very good for its age. Structurally stable with surface wear from use. Minor chip at the base (minor material loss), consistent with age and handling.

MEASUREMENTS & WEIGHT

• Weight: 1.48 g

• Dimensions: L 10 mm × W 10 mm

• Earlobe hole (gauge): 10 mm

• Sale: Single piece