Pectoral Ornament

Unknown

19th–first half 20th century · Silver, enamel, and coral · Islamic Art

This pectoral ornament consists of two round fibulae, attached by a chain with an egg-shaped pendant (tagmut). Fibulae were used by Amazigh (Berber) women to affix draped garments at the shoulder area, and the chain and pendant would have been one of many jewels worn in layers at the chest level. The tagmut (egg) ornament, like many Amazigh jewels was valued as a form meant to ensure the fertility of the wearer. The components have been adorned with green and yellow cloisonné enamel, a technique found in much Amazigh jewelry, which is believed to have been introduced to Morocco from Spain.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th–first half 20th century

Medium

Silver, enamel, and coral

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Bequest of Helen Winslow Durkee Mileham, 1954