India, dated 1637/38
Length 4.5 cm (1 3/4 in.), width 3.8 cm (1 1/2 in.)
LNS 120 J
Made of cut and polished white nephrite, this pendant is shaped like a five-lobed leaf, with each
lobe further embellished with scallops. Both sides bear engraved and gold-inlaid Persian
inscriptions written in nastaliq, a small trilobed motif on the bail at the top, and a line that follows
the contours of the edges. The gold inlays are recessed and lie flush with the surface. The jade is
set into a lobed gold frame that has two heavy rings for suspension at the top.
The inscriptions contain benedictions and praises, include the date 1047 A.H. (1637/38), and
terminate with Shah Jahan's name.
The gold frame around the pendant was not part of the original conception as the piece has its
own transversely pierced bail. Furthermore, the frame partly covers the gold-inlaid border around
the edges. The high quality of the frame suggests that it may be contemporary with the pendant,
added to enhance the importance of the piece or made on the demand of the wearer who wanted
a more impressive ornament.
