Large Hallmarked Silver Foulet Hamsa Pendant, Morocco - Rita Okrent Collection (P498b)

A superb large hallmarked foulet silver hamsa pendant from Morocco. Lovely repousse work and detail.

Circa 1920's-1930's.

Designs on both sides. Adorned with glass in turquoise blue, cobalt blue and green (one side only).

 High grade silver. Good condition. Bail has large opening and is in good shape.

4.6" tall 11.7 cm (including bail), 3.6" wide / 9.2 cm. 75.5 grams.

This type of hamsa involves attaching two silver plates to each other, back to back. The jewel resembles four petals in shape, and is reminiscent of the Islamic gardens – an integral part of royal architecture in their day – which were divided up into four equal sectors corresponding to the four corners of the universe. . Most of the known Foulet hamsa pendants were created between 1907-1927, and became popular among the women of Essaouira and Marrakesh, who wore them over their chests, unlike the women of Fez, who suspended them from their belts.
Reference: Bijoux du Maroc (1999), pp. 195-97; Jewish Life in Morocco, p. 131; In All Their Finery: Jewels from the Jewish World.

Pendant Item 498b