Anklet with Two bells, Dan Culture (Guéré-wobé, Ivory Coast)

😀 Anklet with Two Bells, Dan Culture

A remarkable bronze or copper alloy anklet from the Dan people of the Guéré-wobé ethnic group in Ivory Coast. The piece features a distinctive open-ended circular design with two large spherical bells or terminals, each intricately decorated with concentric spiral patterns. The metalwork displays a rich, dark patina indicative of age and traditional casting techniques. The bells would have produced a subtle sound when the wearer moved, likely used in ceremonial or decorative contexts. The craftsmanship reflects the sophisticated metalworking traditions of the Dan culture, known for their artistic metalwork and intricate cultural artifacts.

📝 Info

Material: Bronze
Condition: Natural patina
Dimensions: 6”x8”x3”
Weight: 8.1 oz
Period: 20th century
Region of Origin: Ivory Coast

📝 Authentication/provenance

This piece belonged to my grandmother, who as well as being an accomplished anthropologist, was the first female to graduate with a degree in anthropology from Harvard University, and worked at the Peabody Museum for many years restoring and cataloging artifacts. She was a world traveler and collected many unique antique items such as this.

The item has been valued by an auction house to be $800 - $1,500