Ornament

19th–20th century
Not on view
This ornament type, known as "tabzimt", is embellished on the recto and verso with brightly colored enamels that are typical of the Kabylie region in Algeria. Enameling techniques in North African Berber jewelry are believed to have been brought by jewelers exiled from Muslim Spain after the 15th century Reconquista. Such a jewel was likely given to a woman as part of her bridal dowry, and would have been worn on special occasions either on the forehead or on the chest.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Ornament
  • Date: 19th–20th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Algeria, Kabylie
  • Medium: Silver, enamel, imitation coral
  • Dimensions: D. 1/4 in. (0.7 cm)
    Diam. 3 7/16 in. (8.8 cm)
  • Classification: Jewelry
  • Credit Line: Bequest of Helen Winslow Durkee Mileham, 1954
  • Object Number: 55.111.46
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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