Dorsal plait or braid ornament. Worn by married women to embellish their long braids. These ornaments were used to counterbalance the heavy pectoral jewellery by Turkemen women and to ward off the evil eye, since the back was considered to be particularly vulnerable.  Central Asia or Iran. Yomut silver, firegilded with stamped and appliqued decoration. 
Width 6 ins/15cms.Weight 295 grams