A SYMBOL OF BEAUTY AND STATUS

This striking set of ear ornaments was made in silver and brass by Batak artisans in West Sumatra, Indonesia. The Batak people, are renowned for their rich cultural heritage and metal work.

For centuries they have practiced animism, honoring spirits of ancestors and natural elements. Traditional Batak society is structured around clans (marga),
each with its own customs and responsibilities, creating a strong sense of community and identity. Padung-Padung have been traditional jewelry pieces of the Batak since antiquity, primarily used in important ceremonies like weddings. Associated with fertility and womanhood, they were given to young women as bridal dowries, symbolizing readiness for marriage. They were also believed to offer spiritual protection, guarding against evil spirits and negative influences, worn during funerals and for daily wear, showing the wearer’s social status and cultural heritage.

The set comes complete on the black metal supports and its story printed out for you inside a beautiful envelope. Being artisan crafted, every piece is an original, showcasing the natural beauty of the material with organic imperfections. The handmade metal supports carry their own authenticity, with subtle imperfections and the potential for a natural patina to emerge over time. The curved top of the ear ornaments have a separate section in the center like you can see in the closeup photo. This piece was used to open the earring to insert it in the ear or head ware.

 Dimensions including the metal supports: heights ca 31 & 37cm x 19cm width and 7,5cm depth

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