Berber Head Adornment – TAOUNZA – Ida Ou Semlal, Western Anti Atlas, Morocco

Early to mid 20th century. Silver, glass, enamel, niello decorations. Approx. cm. 30,0 long x cm. 30,0 width (11.81″x11.81″); gr. 61,5 (2.16 oz.).

The Imazighen (singular Amazigh) also known as the Berbers are among the original peoples of North Africa. Their myths, legends and history span 9,000 years, back to the Proto-Mediterraneans. They have achieved unity by keeping up their unique language and culture which are, like their land, both African and Mediterranean.

For a similar example, see:

• p. 246-247 of “Splendeurs du Maroc”, Africa Museum Tervuren
• p. 48 of “Bijoux du Maroc”, by Jacques ed Marie-Rose Rabaté, Edilsud / Le Fennec.