H x W x D: 4.3 x 3.6 x 1.1 cm (1 11/16 x 1 7/16 x 7/16 in.)
Type:
Jewelry
Geography:
Senegal
Label Text:
Earrings, particularly twisted gold hoops ubiquitous throughout western Africa since the first millenium AD, are an essential component of any Senegalese jewelry ensemble. Often paired with a matching pendant or necklace, the more ornate patterns reflect their European inspirations, incorporating delicate filigree work and crested with flowers and circlets of twisted wire design. These designs often bore French names, or French derivatives. Dangling versions, sometimes modeled after common necklace designs, are also popular and are known as "long-longs." Others are small hoops composed of coiled or twisted wire meant to be attached permanently to the ear and worn in multiples.
The earring here matches a popular style known as the "Bat u Ganare" or "rooster's neck," often seen in bracelets, so may have been part of a set.
Description:
Gilt silver (gold wash) earring decorated with diamond shapes of applied globules alternating with flat and geometric, but incised, decoration. The wire attachment to the ear is a fish hook or kidney that loops into an attached hoop at the other side of the earring.
Provenance:
Marian Johnson, purchased in Dakar, Senegal, 1963-late 20th century to 2012
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 Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks.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/
