West African Silver Fulani Ring

This unusual silver ring dates to the first half of the 20th century and was made in West Africa. It would have been made and worn by the Fula or Fulani people, an ethnic group dispersed around the Sahara, Sahel and West Africa. This type of design, with its moulded silver balls and rope work band is typical of the type of jewellery found in West Africa, particularly Mali (where we believe this ring originates). It is said that the design with its silver balls was inspired by Western playing cards. 

The inside of the ring and the shoulders have a fantastically soft patina, and after many many years of wear and rubbing - the once spheres on the outer shoulders have completely flattened out. 

UK ring size R, US size 8.75

The ring is crafted in low grade silver (the colour is slightly darker than sterling silver) - and is in good and wearable condition. It weighs 13.42 grams, the band measures 8mm across and the boxy bezel protrudes 1cm.

Provenance: Previously in the collection of British poet and art critic Edward Lucie-Smith.