Striking vintage African hand-knottedshell and bead collar necklace, most likely from Ghana, West Africa, and datingapproximately to the 1970s–1990s.
This unusually elaborate piece is constructedfrom multiple rows of tightly wrapped and knotted dark brown fiber, creating abroad sculptural collar. The outer edge is densely ornamented with dozens ofnatural elongated shells, while the lower center terminates in a dramaticfringe of long tapered shells.
The openwork sections incorporate colorful redand yellow elongated beads, small natural wood beads, and large rectangulargreen patterned glass beads. The latter appear consistent with the distinctivepowder-glass beadmaking tradition associated with Ghana, particularly Krobobead production.
Despite its substantial appearance, thenecklace weighs only 6 ounces and appears to have been constructed as wearableadornment.
Maximum width: 5"
Inner circumference: approximately 16"
Weight: 6 oz.
Provenance:
From the Washington, D.C. estate of an individual who worked for a time inAfrica with an NGO. The specific country and circumstances of acquisition arenot documented.
Condition: Excellent vintage condition, withage-related wear and variation to the natural shells, beads, and fiberappropriate to a handmade piece of this age. Please examine all photographsclosely, as they are an important part of the condition description.
A visually impressive example of African beadand shell adornment with wonderful texture, color and sculptural presence.Beautiful worn as a statement necklace and equally compelling displayed asAfrican textile or ethnographic wall decor. Would make a fantastic gift.
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