Indian Plaque Amulet Depicting Hoi Mata

Three dancers in bell-shaped skirts, each under her own little tree, and a jingling fringe below.

This plaque amulet depicting Hoi Mata is Hindu, from Rajasthan, India, in coin silver. In rural Rajasthan, silver plaque amulets are commonly worn on a cord at the neck, and the deity shown determines the kind of protection sought. Three female figures with wide, flaring skirts stand in a row, each beneath a branching tree with small birds and leaves. A beaded frame, studded with round bosses at the corners, encloses the scene. Three clusters of chain hang from the base, each ending in small pointed drops. Twin tube bails sit at the top. It is 3 inches high and 1.75 wide.

Festive, even when standing still.