Vintage Omani Silver Hirz Amulet Necklace – Applied Gold Plaque

A substantial vintage Omani hirz amulet necklace, composed of a rectangular silver amulet box suspended from a double silver chain and finished with numerous articulated dangling charms. The front of the hirz is enriched with an applied gold plaque and geometric decoration. Traditionally, this type of amulet box could contain folded paper bearing prayers or protective texts. This example has not been forced open. Materials & Construction Tested silver Applied gold plaque Rectangular hinged or closed amulet-box construction Double silver chain 18 articulated hanging charms Handmade traditional construction Measurements Total weight: 267 g Amulet box: 9.6 × 6.3 × 1.2 cm Total height with charms: 12 cm Necklace length: 60 cm Origin & Period Oman, 20th century. Hirz amulet boxes form an important part of traditional Omani silver jewelry. Rectangular examples with suspended chains and charms were worn as protective ornaments and are documented in collections of Omani jewelry. Condition Very good vintage condition. Minor scratches and light dents are present, consistent with age and previous use. The amulet box has not been forced open. Collector Note A strong example of Omani ethnographic silverwork, notable for its substantial weight, applied gold detail, articulated fringe and wearable 60 cm chain length. Reference: M6098