Curator

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A work made of wood, silver, copper, amber, silk, and carnelian.

Prayer-String Necklace

Early 20th century

Tekna Laayoune, Western Sahara Northern Africa and the Sahel

Morocco

Artists among the Tekna people and Moors in Northern Africa create silver jewelry in bold forms that stand in stark contrast with the region’s arid environment. Objects from Guelmim in Morocco usually include deeply etched geometric patterns, and are adorned with raised beads or projecting studs. Those from Boutilimit in Mauritania feature large square plates delicately etched with meandering motifs.

Wood, silver, copper, amber, silk, and carnelian

Arts of Africa