A pair of wonderful vintage hallmarked silver fibulae complete with chain and pendant, made circa 1940 and worn by the women of the Ait Hadiddou tribe in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco. The large moulded silver brooches are very decorative with raised elements and a floral scrolling motif. Each has a glass bead at the centre. The original chain links the two brooches together and has at the centre a traditional moulded silver pendant depicting a serpent, representing fertility. The ‘hands’ outstretched are a protective symbol.

This is a beautiful and rare item for collectors and is in good vintage condition. Complete pieces such as this are now becoming increasingly difficult to find.

What is a fibula (pl. fibulae)?
Fibulae, widely utilised by women throughout North Africa, serve as a common type of garment fastener. Usually consisting of two intricate brooches with pins and hoops designed to secure layers of fabric, they are typically linked by decorative chains and often adorned with additional embellishments or amulets. Distinctive in shape and style, these fibulae vary across different regions, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of each locality.

References:

Rabaté, M. (2015). Bijoux du Maroc. ACR, Paris-Là Défense. pp. 146-147

Draguet, M. and Merode, N., 2020. Berber Memories. Yale University Press, p. 59, pp. 180-182

Rabaté, M. (2013). Les Fibules. Paris-La Défense: ACR éd. p. 126-127