Antique Tizerzai fibulae Ida ou Semlal Anti Atlas Morocco silver applied on copper alloy women garment fasteners

Pair of fibulae (TIZERZAI) from the Ida ou Semlal group, western Anti-Atlas, Morocco, late 19th – early 20th century. Copper-alloy (brass/bronze) structure with applied silver plates on the visible face, cut, hammered and engraved with an all-over decoration of stylized curvilinear motifs. Elongated oval form with slightly marked ends. Long forged pin and solid suspension ring. Smooth copper-alloy reverse with old oxidation and signs of wear. Female garment fasteners used to secure a cloak, shawl or heavy veil, worn as a pair on the chest. Rural production characteristic of the western Anti-Atlas combining silver and copper alloy.

AGE: Late 19th – early 20th century

MATERIAL: brass, silver

SIZE : 102 X43 mm (see photos)

WEIGHT: 66 grams

OVERALL CONDITION:
Very good condition, with high quality workmanship.

REFERENCES:
- Tizerzaï, la fibule au Maroc, I. Marchesani; F. D’Alessandro; M. Othmani, SICOPA, 1987, p.
208
- Des trésors à porter, Bijoux et parures du Maghreb, Collection J.-F. et M.L. Bouvier, Institut du Monde Arabe, Paris, 2016, p.48
- Bijoux Berbères au Maroc dans la tradition judéo-arabe, David Rouach, ACR, 1989, p.200
- Bijoux du Maroc: Du Haut Atlas à la Vallée du Draa, Jacques et Marie-Rose Rabaté, EDISUD/LE FENNEC, 1996, p.32