Old Tuareg Bella Hair Ornament – Niger / Mali

Mid 20th century. Dimensions: Height: 6.2 cm (2.44 in); Width: 5.0 cm (1.97 in); Weight: 14.9 g (0.53 oz)

Fine traditional hair ornament of the Bella (also known as Bellah or Iklan), a community historically associated with the Tuareg peoples of the Sahara and Sahel regions of Niger and Mali. Characterized by its elegant geometric form and intricate engraved decoration, this piece reflects the rich silversmithing traditions of the Western Sahara.

The ornament is made of sheet brass mounted on copper and aluminium elements, displaying carefully incised geometric motifs typical of Bella adornments. Such ornaments were worn in the hair as markers of identity, beauty and cultural affiliation.

The Bella are of sub-Saharan origin and historically occupied a distinct social position within Tuareg society. Today, Bella communities maintain a rich cultural heritage of their own while preserving many artistic traditions shared with the Tuareg world.

A fine and well-preserved example of Saharan ethnic jewelry.

Reference For comparable examples see: Silberschmuck aus der Sahara – Tuareg und Mauren, Galerie Exler & Co., Frankfurt am Main, exhibition catalogue, 27 November – 23 December 1982, Abb. 46.

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