Ceremonial perak; Tibet, 19th century.

Ceremonial perak; Tibet, 19th century.
Silver, brass, hard stones and turquoise.
Measurements: 9 x 20 x 20 cm.
The perak is a typical headdress of the ancient aristocracy of the Asian region of Ladakh, in the Himalayas. It consists of a leather strap studded with semi-precious stones, such as lapis lazuli and turquoise. The perak is a symbol among the Ladakhis of the rank and economic position of the woman wearing it. Traditionally, the number of rows of turquoise from front to back signified the status of the wearer: nine rows for the queen of Leh (the capital of Ladakh), seven rows for the more modern aristocracy, five for the marvelites and three for the lower ranks.
The jewels themselves are representative of the deities of Ladakh, who protect and guide the wearer through the dangerous human world.