Pankhi Haar - A Video IntroductionIndian Family Jewels
The Pankhi haar necklace
A necklace in which multiple pankhi (fan) shaped pendants are hung, the Pankhi Haar is a sophisticated necklace that evolved during Mughal reign. The design inlcudes elements of nature or motifs of Sri Nath Krishna.
Pankhi Haar - The EtymologyIndian Family Jewels
Pankhi haar - Etymology
The necklace Pankhi Haar comes from the word 'Pankhi' which means a traditional hand fan and 'Haar' which means garland. Pankhi Haar is also known as Saheli Haar and Kanthala.
About the necklace
The pendants are engraved with precious stones and are richly enamelled on the back. In some necklaces, Sri Nath Krishna motifs appear on the pendants.
Pankhi HaarIndian Family Jewels
The enamel in a pankhi haar
The pendants are engraved with precious stones and are richly enamelled on the back.
The material
Some pendants have tiny seed pearls and beads suspended from them and the verso is ornamented with meenakari (enamel).
Pankhi Haar - The materialIndian Family Jewels
The Materials
Often made of gold, silver, rubies, pearls, emeralds, kundan and polki. Inlaying hard stones with gold and precious gemstones was a common jewellery technique from Mughal India.
The Material
Some pendants have tiny seed pearls and beads suspended from them and the verso is ornamented with meenakari (enamel).
Pankhi Haar - The DesignIndian Family Jewels
The Design
The making
Till today the main centre for the production of luxury jewellery in Rajasthan remains in Jaipur.
Pankhi HaarIndian Family Jewels
The Origin
Emperor Akbar, who was a great patron of the arts, facilitated workshops under which many Rajput masters developed and refined unique styles, combining Hindu, Mughal and Persian influences.
Pankhi Haar - Origin and EvolutionIndian Family Jewels
The Origin
The Symbolism
The design often includes elements of nature, usually birds. Two parrots sitting together symbolise two female friends (saheli). The design of the ‘Pankhi’ is derived from a traditional Indian hand fan.
