A large vintage statement necklace made by the Tuareg people of Mali or Niger. A multi-stranded leather cord is bound with geometrically patterned leather/plastic strips and leather tassels. The main pendant is a high-grade silver and brass engraved kitab. Tuareg people would often make their own traditional necklaces more personal by adding elements, beads and motifs found on their travels. In this case, the kitab is accompanied by two large decorative bakelite rings, each containing small shells and flowers. Necklaces such as this were seen as protective and powerful. A unique tribal necklace, a rare find. Collector’s piece.