Old Pair Berber Fibulae – TIZERZAI – Western Anti-Atlas, South Morocco

Materials: Silver, enamel, silver coins, glass.
Dimensions: Length approx. 72.0 cm (28.35″). Each fibula approx. 20.8 cm high x 12.0 cm wide (8.19″ x 4.72″).
Weight: 295.4 g (10.41 oz).

Large triangular silver brooches linked by a chain, decorated with green and yellow enamel, glass inlays, and finely engraved geometric motifs. A remarkable and complete example.

The central talisman (Herz) traditionally contains a sealed sheet of paper inscribed in Arabic with one or more verses from the Qur’an, selected by an Imam or Marabout at the request of the wearer, to provide protection against the evil eye, curses, hatred, illness, or to attract favor and good fortune.

An essential element of feminine adornment, the tizerzai were worn in pairs to fasten the cloak. Beyond their practical use, these ornaments signified tribal identity and social status.

References:
– Splendeurs du Maroc, Africa Museum Tervuren, pp. 251–252
– Bijoux du Maroc, Jacques & Marie-Rose Rabaté, Edisud / Le Fennec, pp. 28–29
– Africa Adorned, Angela Fisher, p. 251

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