Unusually Fine Moroccan Niello Bracelet

This niello and engraving work on this bracelet is among the finest we have seen for a bracelet of this type.

Bracelets such as these are a well-known type unique to southern Morocco, among Berber communities, but now scarce and difficult to find even in Morocco. The strange shape of these bracelets with their angular, pointy aspects are intended to ward off the evil eye, in keeping with other ‘sharp’ forms.

The bracelet is of silver and is decorated with niello with floral and geometric motifs.

It is of open form and has flared ends. The width of the bracelet narrows opposite its opening.

The narrowest part is mounted with an oval red carnelian in a box setting. The use of a carnelian in this manner suggests Central Asian influence – which is not unexpected particularly given the flows of influence along trade routes and because of the Haj. Closer to each of the bracelet’s terminals are more conventional rivets.

Bracelets such as this example were much favoured in southern Morocco. The nielloed patterns generally is helpful in determining the place of origin.

The example here is in excellent condition.