Torque c. 19th century

"Torque" is an anonymous silver neck ornament, dating back to the 19th century and housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Crafted in a simple yet elegant style, the piece features a thick, curved band with a decorative, ridged surface. A large, spherical bead adorned with intricate floral patterns hangs at the center, adding a touch of ornate detail to the minimalist design. This type of necklace, often associated with traditional jewelry from various cultures, served as a symbol of status, wealth, and identity.