Berber Cloak Clasps

Pair of Enamelled & Coral-Set Silver Alloy Cloak Clasps

Beni Yenni People, Kabylia area, northern Algeria

early 20th century

height (top to bottom of pin of each clasp): 15.5cm, total weight: 116g

This pair of cloak clasps, of triangular form, is impressive for being enamelled on both sides. The enamel is bright glossy and largely intact. Green, blue and yellow enamels have been used, within borders of filigree silver alloy wire. The claps are joined to an enamelled pendant between them by means of silver alloy chains.

The claps and the decorative pendant have been further decorated with the addition of coral-coloured plaques.

Items with comparable work are illustrated in Daalder (2009, p. 398-9) and Prolongeau-Wade (2008, p. 194-5).

References

Daalder, T., Ethnic Jewellery and Adornment: Australia, Oceania, Asia, Africa, Ethnic Art Press/Macmillan, 2009.

Prolongeau-Wade, S., Voyage des au Pays Fibules, Editions du Regard, 2008.

Provenance

UK art market

Inventory no.: 2372

SOLD