Description
The central emerald has been subtly incised with a many-petaled lotus flower, a symbol of the sun, suggesting the radiance of the outsize gem. The enameling on the back depicts a peacock with a pair of peahens amid flowers. Peacocks signal the monsoon rains. The refined use of enamel indicates that this piece was assembled in the specialized workshops of Jaipur, but the size of the emerald suggests that it was made for imperial use.
Provenance
Anne Thomas Jessop Smith [1902–1964], Gates Mills, OH, bequest to the Cleveland Museum of Art (?–1966); The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (1966–)
Accession Number
1966.515
Medium
Gold, emerald, diamonds, enamel, and pearl
Dimensions
Overall: 7.4 x 4.8 cm (2 15/16 x 1 7/8 in.)
Classification
Jewelry
Credit Line
Bequest of Anne Jessop Smith