Necklace Bead in the Form of a Fish
Unknown Artist
Jewelry in ancient India often consisted of elements associated with water, such as fish and other aquatic plants and animals. Since water is essential for life, imagery that connotes water is life-affirming, or auspicious, and therefore appropriate adornment.
Credit: John L. Severance Fund
185-72 BCE
Gold repoussé with granulation
1973.39.i
Image and text: The Cleveland Museum of Art, 2024
Where you'll find this
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Permanent collection