Chastity Plaque
Unknown Artist
14th century
Medium
Gold
Dimensions
3 x 3 3/4 in. (7.6 x 9.5 cm)
Classification
Metalwork
Culture & Period
Indonesia (Java) · Majapahit period (1296–1520)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Samuel Eilenberg-Jonathan P. Rosen Collection of Indonesian Gold, Bequest of Samuel Eilenberg and Gift of Jonathan P. Rosen, 1998
Accession Number
1998.544.5
Art Historical Context
This exquisite **Chastity Plaque**, crafted in the 14th century during Java's Majapahit period (1296–1520), exemplifies the refined gold metalwork of Indonesia's golden age. Measuring just 3 x 3¾ inches (7.6 x 9.5 cm), this small yet intricate piece from an unknown artist was likely worn as a pendant or amulet, symbolizing purity and moral virtue in a Hindu-Buddhist society where such talismans offered spiritual protection. The Majapahit Empire, at its height under rulers like Hayam Wuruk, was a maritime powerhouse blending Indian influences with local Javanese artistry. Gold, a precious medi...