The Jewelry of Urban Jewish Brides in Morocco

The Jewish bride's headdress (sfifa or taj) gave her a regal look, and its unique style singled her out from Muslim brides. Her earrings (khoras kbash, "ram's head"), which reflect a Spanish influence, are considered prime examples of the high artistic quality of Jewish silversmithing in Morocco. She wore a necklace (tazra) with a central pendant adorned with motifs of pomegranate buds and inlaid with precious stones, and her hands were bedecked with bracelets (shems ugmar, "sun and moon"). The bird on the brooch was initially a predominantly Jewish motif, and only later became common among Muslims as well.

Credit: Purchased through the generosity of Ayala Zacks Abramov, Jerusalem

Gift of Jeany Benazéraf, Paris, in memory of Esther Benazéraf-Ettedgui and her son Samuel

Gift of Gerard Levy, Paris, in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of his granddaughter Diane Sarah

The Zeyde Schulmann Collection in the Israel Museum

Extended loan from Gérard Lévy, Paris

Purchased through the gift of Bruce Kovner, New York