Fibula

Unknown

first half 20th century · Silver · Islamic Art

Once part of a pair, this triangular-shaped fibula would have been used by a Tunisian woman to pin a draped garment at the shoulder. Fibulae (khlal or khella) such as these were worn as part of an entire suite of jewelry including necklaces, head adornments, ear and temple jewels, and others. The triangular shape is known in many parts of North Africa to symbolize fertility.

Artist

Unknown

Date

first half 20th century

Medium

Silver

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Bequest of Helen Winslow Durkee Mileham, 1954