Made of brass and/or copper alloys using the lost wax casting method which has been widely practiced on the African continent for centuries. Certain groups (like the Wodaabe), within the Fulani tribe still lead the nomadic lifestyle of their ancestors. They have resisted where possible all outside influence and cultural change. They call themselves Wodaabe, meaning 'people of the taboo', that is, those who adhere to the traditional code of behavior.
Living in central Niger, parts of Nigeria & Cameroon, they travel in small family groups, in search of grazing land for their cattle, camels and donkeys. They believe that they were given the greatest beauty on earth, & they rely strongly on jewelery to further beautify themselves.
Glass, plastic, metal beads, coins, shells, stones, coral and other objects including modern plastic keyrings, suitcase locks, & imitation gem stones acquired at a local market, are being incorporated into their adornments. Their concern for beauty is also evident in the hairstyles & hair decoration of the women. Long plaits of hair wrapped in brass indicate that a girl thus adorned is considered particularly beautiful.
The flanking bronze beads are from the Baule people of the Ivory Coast, and it also has smaller brass beads.
Measures 19" from end to end or 9" from top to bottom.
