With connotations of fertility and the continuity of life and death, the spiral motif is one of the most ancient and enduring ornamental designs
found throughout the Indonesian archipelago. Although this bracelet is believed to have been created and used by one of the ethnic groups of
Sulawesi, its precise origin remains elusive. The discs of coiled wire evoke the spirals used in a number of regions of Sulawesi, including Kulawi, Palu, Poso and Toraja. Such designs feature prominently on architecture and textiles, and also on personal adornments made from bark cloth, shells, beads and metal. Crafted by an expert metal smith and embellished with elegant spirals in a twisted rope design, this bracelet would have been
a prized item indicative of wealth and high status.