Obj. ID: 41050  Necklace, Tunis, circa 1900

The following description was prepared by William Gross:

The trade of jewelry making in gold and silver in Tunisia was largely in Jewish hands. This was true in most of the country, but particularly in Djerba. Most of the jewlery fashioned in gold was for the Jewish community while Arabs generally wore silver items. Many of the pieces of jewelry contained amuletic elements, particularly the hamsa, fish and birds. The level of skill was generally very high.

This magnificent bridal necklace is a prime example of the skill of Tunisian Jewish goldsmiths. Combining exceptionally delicate workmanship in gold and enamel with the perfumed material pressed into various shapes so typical of Tunisian local customs, it is an important piece for the costume of the Jewish bride on her wedding day. These adornments were for weddings and other celebratory occasions.