Obj. ID: 40984  Fibula, Tiznit, circa 1920

The following description was prepared by William Gross:

In Morocco, most of the gold and silverwork that was carried out in ancient times in the production of jewellery was crafted by Jewish silversmiths. The artisans took refuge in Morocco after the Reconquista in Spain in 1492 and brought with them their skills in jewellery-making, using their own customs and traditions to build a trade which has served to enhance the reputation of Moroccan jewellery. While urban jewellery was predominantly made of gold, rural jewellery was always made of silver, and was almost exclusively crafted by men who succeeded their father in the profession from generation to generation. Techniques used included enamelling, engraving, filigree, niello and relief work, as well as the attachment of semi-precious stones such as amber, carnelian, coral and turquoise. Beads, which were once used as currency for trading purposes, were also frequently attached to necklaces, adding to their beauty and value. Old silver coins also added value to the piece.

This elaborate piece of jewelry was used for keeping the garments of women closed. Such closures were called fibulas. Such jewelry was made by Jewish silversmiths working in most sections of Morocco. The round enameled boxes at the top open up and probably were there to contain amulets. This sort of jewelry was used by both Jews and Arabs. The marvelously worked chain is an integral part of the beauty of and the impression made by this jewelry.