Two Pairs of Fibulae with Chains – Tafilalt Region / Nador – Morocco

Two Pairs of Fibulae with Chains – Tafilalt Region / Nador – Morocco

Two pairs of fibulae with chains. Morocco, [20th century].
Silver, cast and engraved.
1. Apparently either from the Tafilalt Region, south-central Morocco, or from the region of the Draa Valley. Centers drop-shaped, encircled by flower-like decorations. Upper portions triangular, with engraved floral decorations. Suspension rings at bottoms, with suspended chain connecting pair of fibulae. 75X5.5 cm. Good condition.
2. Nador, central Rif region, northern coast of Morocco. Main ornament basically round in shape. In the centers are seven star-like images from which droplet-like elements, interspersed with crescents, radiate outward. Clover-like ornaments with suspension holes project from bottoms. Chain connecting pair of fibulae suspended from these holes. 82X4.5 cm. Good condition.
Reference: Jewish Life in Morocco, p. 235.

The purpose of the fibulae (known locally as "bzim" or "khellala") is to fasten shawls and sashes around the shoulder. This piece of jewelry, characteristic of North Africa, harkens back to the types of fibulae worn by women of this region back in the days of ancient Greece and Rome. Most often, a pair of fibulae would represent the primary piece of jewelry, especially among village women, and silversmiths invested great effort in adorning these items with the finest of decorative patterns.
The basic structure of the fibula is quite standard; the pin – no more than a large needle – originally a simple needle, quill, or prong holding the various parts of a garment together; the ring, whose job is to hold the needle in place; and the ornament, which may be triangular, round, or elliptical in shape. A decorative chain connects the two pins, and amulet cases or various types of pendants will at times dangle from this chain.
(For more on this subject, see Jewish Life in Morocco, p. 235).