Product Description

Karen Hilltribe Ear Plug 1

Material: Silver
Style: Karen Hilltribe, Burma
Size: Diameter 3 cm
Order Number: MHSAKHEP1

The Karen peoples comprise many ethnic groups, originally from China. They do not identify with each other. The Karen live  mostly in southern and southeastern Burma (Myanmar). There are about 7 million of them.

The Karen first migrated from Burma to Thailand in the 18th century. Many live on the Thailand–Burmese border. They are the largest tribal group in Thailand.

They do not wear the heavy types of jewelry used by other hilltribe groups. They like to cover their arms with bracelets. Some are flat and narrow and others are round and smooth, twisted or coiled. The women wear silver earrings.

Ear plugs (nga-daung) were worn as an adornment  by hill tribes and also by all levels of Burmese society, both men and women. Royalty and the nobility would have used ones made of precious material.

The ear lobe was pierced and the aperture was gradually enlarged. The ear plug was inserted. The weight of the heavier ones could extend the length of the ear lobe by up to 5 centimeters.

They are rarely seen nowadays. This is a beautiful example, which has some notations on the top with patina.

Please ask for the price (or make an offer).