Extra Fine Old Tuareg Bella-Ikelan Amulet – Niger

Silver grams 12,1 (0.43 oz.); cm. 6,8 high x cm. 5,5 width (2.68″ x 2.17″).

The Bella (or Bouillan) are an ethnic and social group that for centuries lived in a dependent relationship with the noble Tuareg tribes.

Originally, they were slaves (often of Songhai or Hausa origin), captured or purchased, but over time they formed stable and recognizable communities.

For more information and similar examples: “Silberschmuck aus der Sahara – Tuareg und Mauren”, Katalog zur Ausstellung der Galerie Exler& Co. Vom 27. November-23. Dezember 1982.

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