Costume Ornament
Unknown Artist
11th–12th century
Medium
Silver
Dimensions
L. 1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm)
Classification
Metal-Ornaments
Culture
Central coast (?)
Department
Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Cummings, 1964
Accession Number
64.228.268
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delicate silver Costume Ornament, dating to the 11th–12th century, hails from a central coastal culture—possibly along the shores of Africa, Oceania, or the. Measuring just 1 3/8 inches (3.5 cm) in length, it was likely worn as a pendant or brooch, adorning garments for personal adornment or status display. The fish motif, evoked by its tag, reflects the vital role of marine life in coastal societies, where such symbols often carried protective or fertility meanings tied to the sea's bounty. Crafted in silver, a precious metal valued for its luster and malleability, the ornament showcase...