Pendentif Tazra Lot n° 21

Morocco, Fez or Meknes, 18th-19th century Pendant in the shape of an almond, in openwork gold set with stones (rubies, emeralds, white stones and imitations). Clasp in the shape of tulip and pearl added later. Chased back. Gross weight: 62.2 g. Height: 10 cm A Gem-set enamelled gold pendant "Tazra", Morocco, 19th century of drop form, comprising a central glass cut gem, within a border of pink rubies, an openwork foliate panel mounted with emeralds and pearls, later suspension loop to top The traditional "tazra" pendant of city jewelry made by Jewish artisans in northern Morocco signifies opulence. The richness of the gems is combined with the finesse of the openwork metal, a real lace. The numerous florets are reminiscent of the tulip, stylized to the extreme. This decorative motif originated in Ottoman Turkey in the 16th century, and thus bears witness to its influence in the western part of the Maghreb. The success of this pattern is probably due to a prophylactic virtue. The Turkish word for tulip "lale" is written with the same characters as the moon "hilal" and "Allah". By extension, the tulip symbolized the divine protection of the woman's universe. Old Denamur Collection Published in M.-R. Rabaté and A. Goldenberg, "Bijoux du Maroc", 1999, p. 39