Two Algerian Gold Cloak Clasps (Medouar)

These two brooches known as medouar were used in Algeria by Arab women to pin together items of clothing. A small piece of the textiles would be pulled through the centre of the brooch and then secured by the pin as way of pinning them together.

Both are decorated with filigree and granulation work (with some traces of solder), and the gold in each tests at between 18 and 20 carats.

Both are illustrated in Backman (2024, p. 228).

They are in fine condition. Each is heavy-in-the-hand on account of the purity and amount of gold used.

 

Above: This early 20th century studio image of an Algerian Arab woman shows here wearing a round medouar brooch just beneath her necklace.