Antique Ottoman Balkan ‘Tepelik’

A beautifully composed and crafted piece, this tepelik is on the small side at 3.5” across. Traditionally, tepeliks were worn by women on the tops of their fez-like hats or caps across the region under the Ottoman Empire, with this style likely made in the Balkans, possibly Bosnia or Albania, in the early 20th century.

The name tepelik is derived from Turkish for “little mound” and often they are convex, although this piece has a flat back. Delicate filigree and cannetille work make up the disk and bezels, which hold a mix of types of glass. The florets that hold the bezels appear to be gilded, but the piece on the whole is a bit mysterious, as it appears silver but does not test as such. There is minor denting to the edges and bezels, one sphere is missing from one of the florets, and the central glass is chipped, but overall it is in very good condition and could be worn as a pendant, incorporated into clothing or make a lovely addition to any collection.

Size: 3.5″ x 0.375″ / 9cm x 1cm

Weight: approximately 60 grams

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