Title
Dragon-shaped bracelet
Year/Period
Early 20th century
Region
Northern Thailand
Material
Technique
Dimension
Object size: H:0.7 x D:6.2
Accession No.
1993-00636
Collection of
This type of solid silver bracelet with a dragon head at each end was worn by Lahu, Akha and Lisu men. Silver is regarded as having protective properties and has traditionally been a form of wealth to be passed down as family heirlooms. Silver was valued more highly than gold by many highland communities, who used it as currency for trade. Old silver coins from Burma, French Indochina and China were often melted down or incorporated to make jewellery, and other accessories for both men and women.The Akha, Hmong and Lahu are highland communities who live in nothern Thailand. They migrated from China, Burma and Laos to Thailand during the 18th to 19th centuries.
