The finial of this fine Kwere hair pin features an abstract openwork form, decorated with Swahili designs similar to those found on furniture and utilitarian items along the Tanzanian coast. Carved bands and finely incised circular patterns adorn the body of the pin. The pin has a lovely smooth patina from use.
Among the Kwere of Tanzania, elaborate hair pins such as this would have been given as bridal or dowry gifts by a man to a woman, often by a father of the bride to his daughter. Kept as a symbol of marriage, these prized possessions would be passed down the generations.
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