Necklace with Prayer Box late 19th-early 20th century

This silver necklace with prayer box was made by an anonymous artist. The necklace may be a form of portable architecture, as sacred words were transported in a structure around the wearer's neck. Looking at the necklace, one can understand the importance of religion and devotion in certain cultures. Prayer boxes are worn for a variety of reasons; to protect the wearer from evil, to act as symbols of identity, or even as an expression of wealth and status. We cannot know the context for sure as the piece is by an anonymous artist, but further historical research into adornment and its ritual use would lead to a greater understanding of its possible function. The meaning of this artwork is clearly contingent on its social context. The museum space itself is another institution that frames how we understand it.