Fibula (One of a Pair)

Unknown

late 19th–early 20th century · SIlver, enamel, coral · Islamic Art

The distinct pear-shape of the main part of this fibula is typical that of the Zayan Amazigh (Berbers), who live in the Middle Atlas Mountains in Morocco. Such jewels would have attached a draped garment at the shoulder. Silver chains suspend Moroccan rials, or coins, which bear the date A.H. 1321 or A.H. 1903. Moroccan coins, as well as outdated currency from Spain and France, can often be found on Amazigh jewelry, which truly makes these pieces a type of portable wealth. Moreover, the sound of the coins hitting one another as the wearer moved added an auditory component to these beautiful jewels.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 19th–early 20th century

Medium

SIlver, enamel, coral

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Spear Jr., 1982