Rare Sukhothai Bronze Bangle Bracelet with Raised Knobs, Thailand, (3369B)

Description

Prehistoric Bronze Age jewelry, adzes and tools have been found all over Thailand and excavations uncovered objects from various soil levels showing many sites had been inhabited for millennia. By the Sukhothai Kingdom (1238-1438), the Thai metal industry had become advanced. Bronze items found underground by farmers plowing fields often retained most or all of their surface sheen as they were either protected, were not covered long or were in certain conditions that did not create l severe surface losses or deterioration.

This rare 13-14^th century Sukhothai ring-shaped solid bronze bangle bracelet found in Thailand and is notable for its unique design. While most Sukhothai bracelets from this time were undecorated, this one is decorated with three raised knobs surrounded by incisions and articulated ends which suggests it was made for a person of important stature.