Hmong Silver Hairpin ETJ177

$325.00

From Northern Laos, this exceptional antique silver hairpin was made by the Hmong in the mountains of northern Laos. The hairpin features beautiful filigree decoration in traditional Hmong motifs. The hairpin is hollow and it is said that in times past, Hmong women would keep a little opium stored in the hairpin.

Availability: In stock

The Hmong can no longer rely on the cultivation of opium poppies to finance their love of silver and ornamentation and we’ve been told that skilled Hmong silversmiths are a thing of the past, and the vast majority of antique Hmong silver has already been traded for cash in the cities. Newly made pieces are distinctly inferior to those of old.

Characteristics

Length: 17.2cm, 6.8 in
Width at top: 1.5cm, 0.6 in
Weight: 23 grams
Provenance: Luang Prabang
Period: Late 19thC

Read post on Antique Hill Tribe Jewellery
Read about the Hmong
View Laos Photo Gallery

Scroll to Top