Ethiopian Figural Narrative Storyboard Silver Jewelry Component
Jewelry (Component/Necklace Slide/Clasp) · Unknown Ethiopian Artisan/Silversmith. These pieces are traditionally produced in local workshops using 'lost-wax' casting methods following Coptic and Amharic artistic traditions.
Pattern: Traditional Ethopian Narrative/Biblical Pattern; often depicting the 'Lion of Judah', the 'Procession of Kings', or the 'Last Supper', though these specific examples appear more stylized.
Type
Jewelry (Component/Necklace Slide/Clasp)
Maker
Unknown Ethiopian Artisan/Silversmith. These pieces are traditionally produced in local workshops using 'lost-wax' casting methods following Coptic and Amharic artistic traditions.
Material
Likely 'Continental' or 'Coin' Silver with a purity ranging between .800 and .900. Some versions are made from melted Maria Theresa Thalers; lower-grade examples may use white brass or 'Nickel Silver' (Alpacca).
Dimensions
Estimated dimensions: 4-5 cm height for the larger piece. Weight is likely 15-25 grams each due to the dense cast nature. The larger piece features four loops per side for multi-strand attachment.
Description
These are classic examples of Ethiopian silver jewelry panels. Hand-cast with narrative scenes, these ovals serve as central spacers or side-stations for large, multi-strand necklaces. The left panel features a registers-style depiction of figures, while the right displays a single standing figure with traditional habesha garb.
Key Features
Side-loop arrangement (4-3 configuration on the left, 2-2 on the right); high-relief narrative casting; characteristic pitted surface from the casting mold.
Material & Composition
Likely 'Continental' or 'Coin' Silver with a purity ranging between .800 and .900. Some versions are made from melted Maria Theresa Thalers; lower-grade examples may use white brass or 'Nickel Silver' (Alpacca).
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized antique finish with high-relief cast decoration. The left piece shows a horizontal narrative with multiple figures/animals. The right piece shows a singular figure or architectural motif. Styles are consistent with Ethiopian Christian art.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually unstamped. If present, they may have a small '800' or local workshop mark, but the majority of these hand-cast items rely on material testing rather than official hallmarks.
Construction Details
Lost-wax casting (cire perdue). The loops are cast integrated with the main body or hand-soldered. The irregular surface texture is typical of sand-casting or primitive wax molds.
Functional Features
Multi-strand connecting loops for a 'Telsem' style necklace or a pectoral cross assembly. The loops allow for leather cords, beads, or tiered silver chains.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Functional loops serve as the attachment points for jewelry construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-wrought lost-wax casting. The unevenness of the border and the organic flow of the figures indicate a high level of individual artistic expression compared to modern laser-cut replicas.
Authentication Indicators
Casting grain and mold lines visible on the edges; color of tarnish is consistent with .800 silver; asymmetry in the loop placement confirms hand-crafted origin.
Origin & Manufacturing
Ethiopia (likely Addis Ababa or Lalibela workshops). Part of a long tradition of silver working that dates back to the Aksumite Empire.
Era & Period
Modern Traditional (20th Century). While the style is ancient, these specific pieces are likely mid-to-late 20th-century creations for the jewelry trade or local market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980. The wear on the loops and the deep oxidation suggest some age, but they lack the extreme smoothing found on 19th-century 'trade silver'.
Cultural Significance
Represents the fusion of Orthodox Christian iconography and indigenous African metalworking. Such pieces are central to traditional bridal dowries and religious festival attire.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Natural heavy oxidation (tarnish) in the recesses highlights the detail. No cracks or broken loops visible. Metal shows minor surface scratches consistent with use.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120 per piece depending on silver purity and complexity of the narrative. Larger, heavier examples command higher prices in the tribal art market.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a soft brush and mild soap. Avoid heavy chemical dips which will strip the desirable dark oxidation from the low-relief areas, ruining the artistic contrast.
Similar Pieces
Yemeni or Bedouin silver spacers (often more geometric/filigree); West African Ashanti gold-weights (different metal, similar casting style).
Interesting Facts
In Ethiopia, silver jewelry often acts as a portable form of wealth. The designs frequently feature 'The Queen of Sheba' or the 'History of Ethiopia' told through these small silver vignettes.