Recently, an Instagram handle which goes by the name of ‘India Cultural Hub’ shared a treasure of ancient history – 1st century BCE gold earrings found in what is modern-day Andhra Pradesh. This beautiful piece of jewellery is among the earliest jewellery found in this region, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and artistic heritage of ancient India. Ironically, these are currently housed in the MET Museum in New York, USA like many other Indian articfacts.
Known as Prakaravapra Kundala, these stunning earrings are proof of the intricate craftsmanship and royal significance of ancient jewellery. Each earring measures approximately 7.6 cm in length and is made entirely of gold, showcasing a level of sophistication that speaks to the wealth and power of their original owners. The design features beautiful vine-like stems spiraling into trumpet-shaped buds, a motif that combines nature and artistry in a symbolic display of abundance.
Intricate rosettes of emblems of fertility, images of elephants, and winged lions can be seen in the earrings. Perhaps they symbolized royalty and fertility. Elephants belonged to strength and power, while winged lions symbolized divine guardianship. All these motifs mean that the earrings were more than just decoration-they symbolizsed status and divine protection.
The design of the earrings also suggests that they may have been worn by royal figures, potentially stretching the earlobes to the shoulders, a style that is oftne depicted in ancient Indian sculptures, particularly those of the Buddha. This ancient find highlights the importance of jewellery as not just an accessory but as a symbol of identity and power in ancient Indian culture.
These remarkable earrings from Andhra Pradesh showcase the artistry and symbolism of ancient Indian jewellery, providing a valuable connection to India’s royal and cultural past. They serve as a reminder of the intricate relationship between jewellery, identity, and the divine in ancient India, reflecting the cultural richness and craftsmanship that have shaped the subcontinent’s heritage for centuries. These ancient pieces are not only of historical significance but also highlight the timeless appeal of gold as a symbol of wealth, power, and beauty throughout the ages.