Dogon. Necklace, 11th–15th century (?). Copper alloy, 9 x 9 x 1 in. (22.9 x 22.9 x 2.5 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Mrs. Jacob M. Kaplan, 74.67. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 74.67_PS2.jpg)
Dogon. Necklace, 11th–15th century (?). Copper alloy, 9 x 9 x 1 in. (22.9 x 22.9 x 2.5 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Mrs. Jacob M. Kaplan, 74.67. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, CUR.74.67_print_bw.jpg)
Necklace
Arts of Africa
Among the Dogon, jewelry often serves as much more than personal adornment. For example, bracelets, rings, and necklaces might signify that the owner is linked to ancestors or spiritual leaders, or identify the wearer as a priest or a caretaker of a particular altar. The two seated figures on this necklace or collar most likely represent Nommo, the original beings created by the god Amma, who may be represented by the central face. The necklace was probably worn by a hogon, an important priest.
CULTURE
Dogon
MEDIUM
Copper alloy
DATES
11th–15th century (?)
DIMENSIONS
9 x 9 x 1 in. (22.9 x 22.9 x 2.5 cm)
Diameter: 9in. (22.9cm) (show scale)
COLLECTIONS
Arts of Africa
ACCESSION NUMBER
74.67
CREDIT LINE
Gift of Mrs. Jacob M. Kaplan
CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION
A brass necklace decorated with two seated Nommo figures. The arms and legs of the figures are serpentine like; the arms are both raised. Their heads are elongated. At the center of the necklace is another head. Sixteen small rectangular pendants are suspended from the front of the necklace. CONDITION: Generally good. One pendant is missing from its ring.
EXHIBITIONS
MUSEUM LOCATION
This item is not on view
CAPTION
Dogon. Necklace, 11th–15th century (?). Copper alloy, 9 x 9 x 1 in. (22.9 x 22.9 x 2.5 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Mrs. Jacob M. Kaplan, 74.67. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 74.67_PS2.jpg)
IMAGE
overall, 74.67_PS2.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph, 2007
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RIGHTS STATEMENT
Creative Commons-BY
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