A digital archive showcasing the extensive collection of jewellery and adornment images shared on the former Ethnic Jewels Ning site over the years. These images have significantly enriched discussions on cultural adornment and its global dispersion.
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This large brass piece is most likely an armlet to be worn on the upper arm as its inside diameter is about 3inches (7.5cm). I have no idea where it is from, but recently found a very similar piece labelled "Dogon". My best guess would be Southern Ethiopia. I am grateful for any hint...
I do not think that it is Dogon (Dogon pieces are usually made of iron, leather, Shells and glassbeads and yes, sometimes also brass), but I might be wrong. If it is really Dogon, I will have to revise my ideas. Perhaps someone recognizes the decorations and can reveal the riddle. It Looks rather Tuareg to me than Dogon, but I dare not say it is Tuareg (several West African Ethnies have adopted Tuareg style, so it could also be anything from Peul, Woodabe to Bella.
Perhaps Ingrid can tell whether it belongs to Ethiopia or not, so that Ethiopia can be excluded (or not).
Thank you Eva. I agree with you - though I am not too familiar with Dogon work, this piece does not look Dogon at all. I just found another example that looks similar in size, material and decoration, but is oval shaped rather than round like mine. It's described as Mursi (South Ethiopia):
A bit late perhaps, I just saw this piece passing via the video. Yes it is Ethiopian. It could be Mursi, but I do know them also from the Arsi Negelle area. they have them in flat broad shapes and rounded like this. These type could be in brass or copper. The signs are the protective eye signs. they are worn high on the upper arm. Gr. Ingrid.
It's never to late to learn. Thanks a lot for the info, Ingrid.
This piece has found a new owner now - it was really big (to big for me to wear as a bracelet) and heavy, but wonderfully smooth.