Antique Ceremonial Headband – Hizam Ras – Mahdia, Central Tunisia

Late 19th century – first half of the 20th century (circa 1880–1940). Length: 117 cm (approx.) – Height: 8.7 cm (approx.).

Gilded silver (vermeil) worked in repoussé and engraving, with small alveoli filled with colored paste (a local technique imitating cloisonné enamel). Finely grained white seed beads densely stitched to cover the base; Mediterranean coral, usually sourced from Tabarka or Bône (Annaba) and red garnet. Twisted silver thread used for stitching, edging, and reinforcement. The decorative ribbons (r’fet) falling down the back are made of orange and green silk. This combination of materials and techniques is typical of the belts and ceremonial headbands from Mahdia. Very good overall condition, with expected signs of age and use.

A ceremonial headband (hizam ras, chechia ornée, casque de mariée, depending on the locality) forming part of the traditional bridal costume of Mahdia in central Tunisia. It was worn during the wedding ceremony, particularly during the ghidra (the formal dressing ritual), and on major festive occasions such as religious and family celebrations.

These diadems served as symbols of family prestige, fertility, and protection. Decorated with coral and garnet as talismans against the evil eye (ayn), they were carefully preserved and passed down from mother to daughter.

Authentic Mahdia headbands are regarded as masterpieces of Tunisian ethnic silverwork and have become increasingly rare, especially in complete form with their original ribbons.

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