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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Hammered, silver, circular ornament made up of four concentric circles, each of which supports a repeating pattern of a triangular motif. Each triangle is made up of six dots or circles, widest at the base, with the single topmost dot attaching to the next concentric circle. The number of triangles in each circle increases with the increased size of each concentric circle.

History Of Use

Kalash'a girls and women sew these ornaments or "chama" onto their dresses, as well as onto the back of their cowrie-studded headdress (known as "shushut", worn closest to the skull) and "kopas" (worn overtop of the shushut. Chitrali women also sometimes wear these on their "shalwar-kamees" or shirt/pant outfits.

Specific Techniques

These ornaments are made of 'German silver" (silver and tin alloy), and are made by casting, applying small pieces of silver that are heated and hammered (granulation technique) and polished.

Iconographic Meaning

This design is the same design that is found on the “ke-ra” or shield worn by high status or brave Kalash or their descendants.

Narrative

"Chama" are made by Kho silversmiths (Chitral Valley tribe) working in the Chitral Bazaar and bought by Kalash'a men for their wives, girlfriends or daughters. If she can afford it, a wealthy Kalash'a woman will have up to four "chamas" on her dress, two on the front above each breast, and two on the back above each shoulder blade. Sometimes they sew trade beads and cowrie shells onto the "chama" attached to their dresses for a more decorative effect.

Item History

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