Silver Dowry Pendant (Muze)

This fine silver chest ornament was presented to Muslim brides as part of the wedding dowry in Somalia and the Harar region of Ethiopia. This type of ornament known as a muze is the most ornate of chest ornaments worn by women in the Horn of Africa.

Usually these are made from silver-plated copper or brass but this example is of solid silver, which makes it more unusual.

Somali sub-clan groups such as the Gadabuursi, Issa and Karanle are among those who would wear muze pendants. The Harar region also has many Somalians living in it, and there has been much cross-cultural exchange between the Somalians and the Ethiopians in the area.

The pendant comprises a large, hollow crescent element of thick, high-grade silver sheet. This is decorated with silver wire and applique work, as well as having many hollow silver balls suspended from it.

A similar example is illustrated in Fisher (1987, p. 282).

The example here is in fine condition.