FIVE NAGA GLASS-BEAD NECKLACES, NAGALAND, NORTH-EAST INDIA

A. With blue glass beads on multiple threads joined by woven cotton panels with orange and red-bead embellishments
B. With orange beads in multiple strings joined by woven thread embellished with polychrome bead panels and two clasps of two coins
C. With orange beads and multiple thread joined by woven cotton, the clasp composed of a cotton loop around a coin
D. With orange beads in multiple strings held by woven thread panels and a metal disc-form clasp
E. With orange, turquoise and brass beads, of fourteen strings formed in semi-rigid sections

A and B: India, Art and Culture 1300-1900, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1985

A and B: Welch 1985, p.81, fig.36

Generally in fair to good condition. Beads in good condition. Some wear and ageing to cotton bands and fastenings associated with usage, as viewed
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The necklaces of multiple strands allow for colourful decoration of tribeswomen. The practice seemed to exist of using a variety of materials, judged only on their decorative potential, resulting in a great variety of colour and pattern (Jacobs 1990, pp.314-319). A photograph taken by Christoph von Furer-Haimendorf shows Konyak women preparing for a Spring Festival and illustrates the way in which these necklaces were worn one upon another (see Jacobs 1990, p.131).