Bugis Kawari Disk

A Matching Pair of Silver Bugis Kawari Disks with Islamic Talismanic Symbols
South Sulawesi, Indonesia, 19th-20th century

diameter: 5.3cm each

Kawari were used by the seafaring Bugis people of South Sulawesi (formerly known as the Celebes) for the ir talismanic
properties. They were worn usually by the children of noble and well-to-do families suspended on chains, usually one of
the back and one on the chest. Both sides of each kawari plate are embellished with designs in filigree silver or gold.

The matching pair here comprise a thin silver disk onto which filigree silver has been soldered in talismanic and
scrolling designs.


Reference: similar examples are shown in Richter, A., The Jewellery of Southeast Asia, Thames & Hudson, 2000, pp.