MSI520

ELONGATED TRADITIONAL EARRINGS — LEMBATA ISLAND (EAST OF FLORES), INDONESIA

Overview
A striking pair of elongated traditional earrings from Lembata (historically “Lombien”) island, eastern Indonesia. Crafted in brass (copper–zinc alloy), these earrings reflect a refined balance of symbolism and craftsmanship, historically associated with social identity and ceremonial exchange.

Background & Cultural Context
In the islands east of Flores, jewelry played a central role in marriage exchanges and status display. Earrings like these were not merely decorative—they signified wealth, fertility, and continuity. The granulated terminals are widely interpreted as symbolic of ripe rice grains, a powerful metaphor for prosperity and life in agrarian societies.

Design & Craftsmanship

• Elegant elongated, leaf-like form with a central openwork slit

• Distinctive granulated ends, finely textured and rounded

• Balanced symmetry, indicating skilled hand fabrication

• Surface patina consistent with age, enhancing authenticity and character

Material

• Tested brass (copper–zinc alloy)

• Naturally aged patina, unpolished to preserve historical integrity

Measurements & Specifications

• Length: 68 mm

• Width: 18 mm

• Earlobe opening: 17 mm

• Total weight (pair): 27.54 grams

Condition

• Very good for its age

• Fully intact, no visible structural damage

• Wearable and stable

• Excellent preservation of original form and surface

• Offered as a pair

Reference:
*- Ethnic Jewellery from Indonesia - Page 242 - Bruce W. Carpenter – Phillip Heurtaut - Dr. Antonio J. Guerreiro – EDM

*- A World of Earrings Africa – Asia – America – Page: 286 - by Ann Van Cutsem – Skira