1998.11

Albert R. SpaldingVirginia Spalding

Gift

Gift of Albert R. and Virginia Spalding

5-1/4 in

12 in

Cultural/Historical Context

This choker bears reference to Islamic beliefs through the centrally located waning moon shape known to signify the Arabic Leagues, and through the alternating heart shapes seen linking the circles of silver dangling from the diadem. The heart shape is relative to the Arabic number “5” and is represented also through the five points of the Venus star which are said to represent the five pillars of Islam. The color usage also signifies the presence of Muslim beliefs in that green is said to be the color of “Allah”, and red being the reference to “blood shed” in historical jihad or “holy war”.