Torque

Art Historical Context

This elegant torque, crafted by an unknown artist of the Bura peoples from-day Niger, dates to the 3rd–11th century. Fashioned from copper alloy, measures 7-3/8 inches in diameter, forming a rigid neck ring typical of ancient West African metal ornaments. Displayed in the Metropolitan Museum Art's Department of Arts of Africa,, and the Americas, was generously gifted by Drs. John and Nicole Dfass in 1998. The Bura culture in the Sahel region during this pre-Islamic era, producing remarkable metalworks that highlight advanced metallurgical skills. Torques like this were likely worn as prestigi...