H x W x D: 0.3 x 16.2 x 16.8cm (1/8 x 6 3/8 x 6 5/8 in.)
Type:
Jewelry
Geography:
Kenya
Date:
Late 20th century
Label Text:
This Kamba women's necklace is made of an aromatic wood called chyutu. Because each individual thin rectangle of chyutu wood moves, it is more appealing when worn than in a static photograph. The labor that goes in to making the necklace signals its quality and status..
Description:
Necklace of rectangular strips of chyutu wood with a fiber loop and knot closure in the back.
Provenance:
Ruth and Derek Singer, Kenya, 1985-1989 to 2010
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 Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks.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.
Image Requests:
High resolution digital images are not available for some objects. For publication quality photography and permissions, please contact the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives at https://africa.si.edu/research/eliot-elisofon-photographic-archives/
