Tuareg Silver Teraout Pectoral Amulet

Description

This lavishly decorated Tuareg Teraout pectoral amulet.
The Tuareg woman wears this impressive piece of protective jewellery on her wedding day.
Its interior encloses magic script or surahs from the Koran as protection.
The origins of the Teraout are in the Tassili plateau in Algeria, but it is found in the region of Agadez up to the Hoggar.
It is a symbol of wealth and social status.
Teraout may be simple in design or very elaborate such as this example, but all authentic old tribal pieces have a tin sheet metal backing.
Excellent condition, rich patina of age and usage – Collected in Niger.

Length: 22,5 cm (8 3/4 inches) excluding leather strip
Width: 28 cm (11 inches)
132 grams (4.7 oz)