147 - Female ceremonial headdress from Afghanistan, Central Asia—19th century

Female ceremonial headdress from Afghanistan, Central Asia—19th century A "Börk" ceremonial headdress for women from the Turkmen communities of Afghanistan, made of fabric and metal. Hemispherical in shape, it is entirely covered with small alloy plates sewn onto a textile base, featuring long side bands, pendants, medallions, chains, and polychrome tassels embellished with glass and blue beads. The top is finished with a conical metal element featuring pendants and a piece engraved with geometric motifs. The lower edge includes a band of movable metal discs that produce a sound when shifted. This piece is an outstanding example of traditional adornment among the Turkmen peoples of Central Asia. It shows signs of wear, metal oxidation, losses, deformations, and alterations to the fabric. Height of the headdress: 23 cm; with fabric: 80 cm. Item stored in an international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-EU shipping: no import duties apply within the EU. An export permit from the country of origin may be required.