Tuareg Silver Agadez Cross Pendant 3, Niger

Description

A superb old Tuareg Agadez cross from Niger. 
The amulet pendant is adorned on both sides by a hand-stamped and hand-chased patterns. There exist over twenty different types of Tuareg crosses, each representing the particular region or village from which it originates. Though designs vary from region to region, Tuareg jewelry displays a very particular style.
Jewelry from the Sahara, aside from being wonderfully decorative, is foremost characterized by its protective symbolism.
It is not uncommon that a woman may wear numerous amulets knotted onto black wool twine.
* Please see a similar piece in AFRICA ADORNED by Angela Fisher p. 210-211
and in Magische Ornamente Silberschmuck der Tuareg, Museum Rietberg, Zürich (2003) p. 54
Excellent patina, mid 20th century – Collected in Niger. 

Dimensions: 6,7 x 9,5 cm (2 5/8 x 3 3/4 inches)
Weight: 11,4 grams (.40 oz)