Antiker Eisen-Schmuck - frühe Dogon - Mali

A fine collection of ancient iron jewely and utensils from the Pays Dogon in Mali. These items were found in remote caves were they were used as grave-gifts or as utensils. They date from the early-Dogon period or are even possibly of Tellem origin. (16th-17th cent.). All items are quite rusty. Datation is provided for reference only, without test, it stays our opinion.
Presented here are 4 large iron twisted bracelets; dim; 9,5 to 10,5 cm. One simple round bracelet is added; 7 cm wide.
Then a thin iron-sheet bracelet; 2,5 x 6,5 cm in dim.
Then a long iron bell, a small iron axe-head and an iron piercer. ( 8 x 8,5 x 17,5 cm).
Then there is a small iron knife, with the wooden handle in pieces. (restauration needed). 19 cm long blade, Very rare!
Two iron utensils are added; a thin hoe for working on the land and a kind of iron blade folded in a ceremonial way. 33 and 28 cm. long.
The most interesting items are two small iron symbolic headrests, given to a deceased in a cave burial. Representing ritual birds. Very rare to find. 9,5 x 5,5 cm and 7,5 x 3,5 cm in dim.
All items were collected in situ in the late 1990`s.