Antique India Bracelet, Vauk Armlet, Madhya Pradesh, Low Grade Silver, 249.5 Grams
RARE: Early 20th century, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, armlet, bracelet.
This is a low grade silver armlet (50% approx.) called Vauk, traditionally worn by Maharatta and Gujarati women of the Raval community.
The semi flexible body of a broad, braided low grade silver wire band, and hand drawn by a master craftsman, has a central focal ornament, a beautifully etched domed stylized open lotus flower, behind which is the concealed closing device.
The bracelet opens slightly by a sliding pin and is semi flexible to stretch open a little. It is large enough to slip over the hand. It is quite heavy and very loose to wear at the wrist.
You will note in listing photo No. 6 that there has been brass reinforcement along Upon closing edge of the bracelet. Upon close examination there has not been any damage or any of the wires come loose - so I am not sure why this has been reinforced. Once the bracelet is closed this brass section is not visible when wearing.
I have reduced the price of the bracelet because of this brass reinforcement. Most other Vauk bracelets are selling between $600.00 to $950.00 on Etsy.
It can be worn halfway up the forearm (as detailed in the last listing photo). It can also be worn on the upper arm - as a armlet as it was originally made for.
Inside diameter: 7 cm (2 3/4")
Inner Circumference : 21 cm (8 1/2")
Height of the bracelet: 6 cm (2 1/2")
Weight: 274.6 Grams (9.685 oz)
Tested for Low grade silver - 50% approx.
