In the southern Indian region, jewellery is created keeping in mind several ritualistic needs of the various communities. The size and design of the ornament denoted the social background of the owner; some jewellery like the thali also declared the marital status of the wearer. This vanki or armlet is an elaborate example of repousse craftsmanship from Tamil Nadu. Stacked animal and bird motifs culminate in a central kirtimukha or face of glory. The kirtimukha is also placed centrally in the detail on the back.
