Large Single Fibula / Two Pairs of Fibulae – Morocco

Large Single Fibula / Two Pairs of Fibulae – Morocco

Large single fibula and two pairs of fibulae. Morocco, [early 20th century].
Silver, cast and engraved; chased; silver thread; remnants of cloisonné enamel; glass.
1. Single fibula ("tisernas"). Aït Atta region, Draa Valley, southeastern Morocco. 21X11 cm. Good condition.
2. Pair of fibulae. Essaouira (Mogodur). At centers, blue glass stones. Vegetal patterns, with remnants of polychrome enamel. 9X3.5 cm. Good condition.
3. Pair of fibulae. Origin unknown, probably southern Morocco. At centers, red glass stones. 11X2 cm. Good condition.

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).