CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL IMPLICATION OF MUSEUM COLLECTION: REPRESENTATION OF REGIONS AND TRIBES IN THE NOSE RINGS OF AMRAPALI MUSEUM OF JAIPUR, INDIA

Abstract

Nose rings have through the ages been worn not just in India but all over the world. The reasons for wearing nose rings are varied which often takes ritualistic meanings. Some aboriginal tribes used bone or boar tusks to appear fiercer to their enemies. In tribal societies nose rings can assume amulet function to prevent evil spirits from entering the body. Nose is one of the most visible parts of the face. Nose ornaments greatly enhance and brighten the individual appearance. Therefore, a lot of attention and traditional significance has been attached to their designs. In India, the tradition of nose rings can be a rich source of cultural history of communities. The present study analyzes a few regional traditions pertaining to the practice of wearing nose rings. Nose rings have been selected to represent east, west, north, south, and central regions of India. The nose rings have been documented to highlight their historical and cultural significance and not just their decorative function. The focus of the study is to showcase unique illustrations through carefully selected nose ornaments worn in eight different states of India from the collection of the Amrapali Museum.