H x W x D: 10.8 x 13.7 x 4.4 cm (4 1/4 x 5 3/8 x 1 3/4 in.)
Type:
Jewelry
Geography:
Tahoua region, Niger
Date:
19th-20th century
Label Text:
While objects such as bracelets, collars, earrings and anklets crafted from copper, gold and silver were used as jewelry, in some cases they also served as currency. These pieces of jewelry were not widely circulated and were never used in connection with routine transactions. Instead, they served as repositories of wealth in a form that was easy to store and transport.
Description:
Semicircular copper alloy anklet with polygonal finials. The facets of polygonal finials are deeply imprinted with decorative punches of varying size and ornament, and the anklet is burnished from wear. This is the larger of two like pieces.
Provenance:
Tom Joyce, Santa Fe, 1986 to 2002
Content Statement:
As part of our commitment to accessibility and transparency, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is placing its collection records online. Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks. If you see content requiring immediate action, we will do our best to address it in a timely manner. Please email nmafacuratorial@si.edu if you have any questions.
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