South India, probably Tamil Nadu
Late 18th century
Diameter: 10.2cms (approx.)
A large gold bangle, dhanda kada, repousse-worked with vaisnavite symbols of conch shells and stylised lotus flower motifs.
The bangle has an inscription possibly of the owner.
Such bangles were usually given to men in recognition of valour and achievement in the arts. The inside of the bangle is hollow and filled with seeds that rattle.
