Ancient Great Cross Tuareg Teneghelt tan Aïr - Niger - The mid-20th century
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€ 37
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Selected by Surya Rutten
Has over 25 years' experience in Asian art and owned an art gallery.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
 | €37 | |
|---|---|---|
 | €32 | |
| €27 | |
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Original Tuareg Cross of the Aïr, Antica Grande Croce Tuareg dell'Aïr, an artefact in high-purity silver (approx. 900‰) from the Aïr region in Niger, dating to the mid-20th century, measuring 9.4 × 5.5 cm, in excellent condition with a pleasant patina.
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Description from the seller
Ancient Large Tuareg Cross of the Aïr (Teneghelt tan Aïr), hand-made in high-purity silver (tested, purity estimated at about 900‰)
According to tradition and ethnographic interpretations of this model, the distinctive pointed tip evokes the rocky summits of the Aïr Massif, but it has also been associated with the spear tips of nomadic warriors. The Aïr Cross is therefore considered a symbol of courage, determination, orientation, and protection, qualities closely tied to the life of Saharan populations.
Tuareg crosses are one of the Sahara's most famous symbols and have accompanied the life of nomadic peoples for centuries as emblems of identity, belonging, and protection.
Dating to around the mid-20th century when these jewels were still made by melting circulating silver coins, producing high-purity alloys whose purity naturally varied from piece to piece.
Traditionally these crosses were without a passante and were worn by threading a cord directly through the openings.
Origin: Aïr Region, Niger
Material: Silver (tested) about 900‰
Dimensions: 9.4 × 5.5 cm
Era: Mid 20th century
Conditions
Excellent condition, with a pleasant patina of time and engravings naturally softened by use.
the photos are part of the description
Shipping with trackable courier
Ancient Large Tuareg Cross of the Aïr (Teneghelt tan Aïr), hand-made in high-purity silver (tested, purity estimated at about 900‰)
According to tradition and ethnographic interpretations of this model, the distinctive pointed tip evokes the rocky summits of the Aïr Massif, but it has also been associated with the spear tips of nomadic warriors. The Aïr Cross is therefore considered a symbol of courage, determination, orientation, and protection, qualities closely tied to the life of Saharan populations.
Tuareg crosses are one of the Sahara's most famous symbols and have accompanied the life of nomadic peoples for centuries as emblems of identity, belonging, and protection.
Dating to around the mid-20th century when these jewels were still made by melting circulating silver coins, producing high-purity alloys whose purity naturally varied from piece to piece.
Traditionally these crosses were without a passante and were worn by threading a cord directly through the openings.
Origin: Aïr Region, Niger
Material: Silver (tested) about 900‰
Dimensions: 9.4 × 5.5 cm
Era: Mid 20th century
Conditions
Excellent condition, with a pleasant patina of time and engravings naturally softened by use.
the photos are part of the description
Shipping with trackable courier
Details
Dynastic Style/Period
The mid-20th century
Country of Origin
Niger
Title of artwork
Ancient Great Cross Tuareg Teneghelt tan Aïr
Condition
Excellent condition
Authenticity
Original/official
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