Accession Number

1986.008.0018

Alternate object names

Wedding Chain

Creation Date

circa 1600

Description

Two gold chains with 164 links each joined by one larger link. Links are conjoined ridged and serrated oval links.

Exhibition Label

Case/Object Caption (2023):

Double Chain
Gold (Peru or Mexico c.1620)
Gift of Jamestown Inc.
1986.008.0018

This magnificent double chain would have been worn as a single item in Peru. The links are skillfully worked and alternately reeded or spirally twisted. Each strand is over 37 inches long and together they weigh more than 22 ounces of solid gold.

When the Spanish tried to impose their sumptuary laws restricting luxurious clothing and jewelry in the colonies, the Indigenous aristocracy refused to comply. Rather than cause a cultural conflict, the Spanish relaxed their rules. Possibly the owner expected it to be divided in Spain, where a double chain might have been considered too ostentatious.