INDONESIAN SUMBA ISLAND MAMULI EAR ORNAMENTS,Early-to-mid 20th century. Metal (maybe coin silver) patinated incised and decorated ear ornament or pendant known as Mamuli. These ornaments known as Mamuli play an essential role in the elaborate ceremonial gift exchanges practiced on important occasions by the people of Sumba Island in eastern Indonesia. In earlier times, when the Sumbanese practiced artificial elongation of the earlobes, Mamuli were worn as ear ornaments, but nowadays they hang around the neck as pendants. In Sumbanese culture, precious metals are believed to be of celestial origin. The sun is made of gold and the moon and stars of silver. Signs of usage. - height: 3.75 inches. Estimate $150-250
