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Auction Ends: Jun 28, 2011 08:00 PM EDT

Jewelry

Tuareg Silver Cross Necklace from West Africa

Item Number
107
Estimated Value
65 USD
Sold
25 USD to Lenannedez
Number of Bids
1  -  Bid History

Item Description

This Tuareg necklace was purchased by the donor from a street vendor in Bamako, Mali. The cross measures 1.75" by 2.75" and has some engraving on the back and on the front at the top of the cross as well. This engraving could possibly be the signature of the artisan written in the Tamasheq language of the Tuaregs.  The necklace length is 18" and is strung with black beads and the cross is made of some silver.  Each of the three ends of the cross are enlayed with an unknown stone. 

 This particular piece is studier than the typical tourist souvenir and has received many compliments for it's ethnicity.

A cross like this has come to be emblematic of the nomadic Tuareg tribe of West Africa.  Some crosses protect against the "evil eye"; some are for good luck and protection.  During the French colonial era the crosses were named for desert villages in Niger.   This particular cross is named for the village of Tahoua, Niger.

 

Donated By:

Anonymous