Vintage tiara crown Indonesia wedding crown hair accessory head piece (AAA)

This sale is for a Sumatra wedding tiara or crown.

SIZE AND CONDITION: This rare Sumatran bridal tiara measures 2½ ins high (approx 6 cms). The width is 10 ins (approx 26 cms) with the inner diameter of the headband adjustable from 6½ - 7½ ins approx (16 – 19 cms) to fit different head sizes.

CONDITION: this vintage hair accessory was part of the stock of a wedding outfitter and has been used. Signs of wear and use and small repairs are to be expected on such items.

MATERIALS: antiqued silvertone metal and rhinestones

DATE: it is extremely difficult to date such items precisely because they were often made in the same traditional style for many years.

DESCRIPTION:

The headdress is based upon a flexible band of metal, surmounted by a row of repousee flowers and leaves. Each flower has small clear rhinestones set into it. The flowers and leaves are set upon spiral springs so that they quiver when the wearer moves. The leaves form another row behind the flowers. All these various elements are soldered to the flexible headband.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Large and elaborate headdresses are still part of the traditional dress worn on festive and ceremonial occasions such as weddings in Borneo, Sarawak, Sumatra and other western islands. Elaborate metal headings gilded, embossed and engraved are attached to combs and worn tiara like on the front or top of the head. These are frequently accompanied by many quivering metallic pins set with rhinestones and adding sparkle. The wing like shapes of some of the headdresses evoke images of buffalo horns, rooftops or boats.

Such hair combs and headdresses are still part of the wedding regalia for bridal couples. In the past they were passed down through families as treasured heirlooms. However many aristocratic families have become impoverished and have reluctantly sold their treasured possessions. As a result original and handsomely crafted combs and headdresses are finding their way into western collections. Complete outfits of wedding regalia for both bride and groom are now usually rented from a Pemaes or specialist company who also does the bridal make up and hairdressing for the great day.

Alas, many young brides are now discarding these lovely (but heavy) traditional crowns and tiaras in favour of modern Western style dress and rhinestone studded tiaras made in China.

Item ID: E13-01-006