Rat-tail Earring ..................................................40 Cricket Cage

What’s It Made Of?

Variations of hooped earrings can be seen in many cultures. This earring may seem unremarkable from afar, but upon closer inspection, the material used in its manufacture becomes clear. The earring is made from the vertebrae of a bush-rat’s tail with braided fibers around for decoration.

Humans often look to their surrounding environment for the raw materials to make items for personal adornment. What are some other unique items that could be used to make earrings?

Alberto Rey Work in Progress: Rat -tail Earring

Cricket Cage

Scientific Name......................................................No Data Description......................Carved Ivory, Early 20th century BMoS Catalog No...................................................C16122 Collection Site.......................................................... China Collection Date..........................................................1948 Acquired By..............................Gift of Chauncey J. Hamlin

China

ARTIFACT SIZE: 1.5in. x 2.25in.

PAINTING SIZE: 48in. x 72in. Photo of artifact illustrates actual size in relation to the size of the finished painting shown at left.