This is a leaf-shape sterling niello pin featuring the goddess Makkala. The filigree or pierced mounting adds decorative interest to this pin.
Part of the mark is illegible, but it says:
This pin is from the 1940s - 1950s, although it has been worn very little.
Niello is an enamel technique almost always used on a sterling base, which produces a solid background with the design in silver. Most pieces have a grayish background, but some colored enamel pieces were made as well. The vast majority of niello pieces are from Siam (now called Thailand) and are from the 1940s and 1950s. I'll be listing more niello pieces this week.
Inv #6-1380x.
SIZE: This pin is 1 1/2" by 2 1/4".
BACKGROUND: I recently came across a box of niello pieces that I purchased from various individuals in the 1990s when we had our vintage jewelry store in Bellevue WA. When we closed our shop in 2001, I put these away and will be listing them this week.