Pectoral Ornament

Unknown

19th–20th century · Silver · Islamic Art

Two fibulae and a ball pendant make up this pectoral ornament that would have been worn by an Amazigh (Berber) woman in Morocco. The shape of the fibulae is sometimes referred to as an argan nut (irgen), referencing the importance of this nut in Amazigh cuisine, medicine, and cosmetics. Jewels like this ornament were worn as part of an ensemble including head and ear ornaments, bracelets, and rings.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th–20th century

Medium

Silver

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. Paul Cauvin, 1967