Fibulae with Ornament Shaped like Star of David and Enamel Decorations – Ahl Massa, Morocco

Fibulae with Ornament Shaped like Star of David and Enamel Decorations – Ahl Massa, Morocco

Pair of fibulae with ornament shaped like Star of David. Ahl Massa (north of Tiznit [Tiznet]), Morocco, [early 20th century].
Silver, cast and engraved; chased; glass; remnants of cloisonné enamel.
At the centers of the fibulae are ornaments shaped like a Star of David, superimposed by an additional flower-like decoration formerly with enamel "petals". Center inlaid with a red glass stone.
In the catalogue "Jewish Life in Morocco, " it is noted that at times, the shape of fibulae is reminiscent of the paw and claws of a jackal – imagery intended to ward off evil influences.
21X9.5 cm. Fair-good condition. Enamel missing. Slight defect to flower-like decoration on one fibula.
Reference: Jewish Life in Morocco, p. 235.

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).