Description

Old Tuareg hoops tizabaten earrings from Niger.
The adorned tips called ‘eraf wa n tesabit’ are protective amulets against the evil eye.
Matched pair of silver tizabaten or tsabit hoops with a rich patina of age and wear.

Diameter ear gage: 5 mm
Finials: 17 x 17 mm
Inner diameter: 47 mm
Weight: 94,9 g

References:
ART OF BEING TUAREG Ed. by Thomas K. Seligman and Kristyne Loughran (2006) p. 169.
Magische Ornamente Silberschmuck der Tuareg, Museum Rietberg Zürich (2003) p. 67

About the TUAREG
The Tuareg are a traditionally nomadic Berber people of the Sahara, living mainly in Mali, Niger, Algeria, and Libya. Their culture reflects desert life, spirituality, and Islamic influence.

Tuareg artisans craft functional yet symbolic silver jewelry, including crosses, pendants, rings, and bracelets. Most notably, the Agadez Cross stands as a powerful symbol of identity and protection. In addition, amulets and talismans—often containing Koranic verses, Sahara sand, or symbolic scripts—serve as protection against illness, bad luck, and evil forces.

Unlike many African cultures, the Tuareg do not create figurative sculpture. Instead, they produce abstract, utilitarian objects in leather, wood, clay, and metal, transforming everyday items into distinctive works of art.