PRESTIGIOUS LOVE

This gorgeous set includes a striking abalone shell necklace and a set of 2 pectoral breast plates, all complete on metal stands.

The necklace was made as per ancient techniques with Abalone shells and natural fibre by local artisans on the island of Papua. The Abalone shell is believed to have healing properties, bringing emotional balance, tranquillity and confidence.

 On Papua shells represent prosperity and are often used during wedding ceremonies, believed to bring emotional and financial wealth. Here shell necklaces have been worn by local tribes since ancient times, to enhance the body as well as marking status and achievements. With the shell’s strong mythological importance they were considered to be the links between the human and the spiritual world, bringing fertility and well-being.
In the past, shells travelled on long pathways through the Asian Pacific, used as exchange items or currency and for creating ties and relationships between people.

The breast plates were made in brass by local artisans on the island of Timor in Indonesia, created as per ancient techniques. Discs like these were given to warriors upon their successful returns as a reward, and later worn as a symbol of prestige during ceremonies. The designs on the plate are celestial ornaments, evoking the cosmos.
As per antique tradition they were also presented as bride price in marriage contracts, paid by a groom or his family to the family of the woman he wanted to marry. The plates have different motifs like you can see in the photo with the 8 discs and being handmade each piece is slightly different. 

The suite comes with the stories of the artefacts printed out for you inside a beautiful envelope. Being artisan crafted with organic materials, each piece is slightly different containing beautiful, natural imperfections. Books not included.

DIMENSIONS INCLUDING THE BLACKENED METAL SUPPORTS:

• The necklace: ca 87 x 40 cm 
  
• The breast plates: ca 17cm wide by 27 and 32cm high