Arm Bracelet From North Yemen, Regions Of Sa'dah, Amran And Jabal Rasih, 19th Century

A circular, open arm bracelet with a wide, domed cross-section, decorated with a continuous relief design combining stylized floral motifs and dotted lozenges, arranged in parallel registers highlighted by fine beaded cords. The hollow interior is composed of assembled hammered leaves, giving the piece a strong visual volume while maintaining a structural lightness. Silver-plated metal, repoussé, chased, and applied work, showing signs of age, some minor dents from use, overall in satisfactory condition, see photos. North Yemen, Sa'dah, Amran, and Jabal Rasih regions, 19th century. Dimensions: diameter 13.5 cm; thickness 3 cm. Provenance: formerly in the collection of Dr. Rodor, France. Sold with an invoice from Galerie Ocarina and a certificate of authenticity from the expert Serge Reynes. "This type of arm bracelet, known locally as maʿdat, was worn primarily by women on their upper arms. It served both as a status symbol and as an identity marker, reflecting regional affiliation and social standing. In the tribal societies of northern Yemen, these ornaments also constituted a store of value, integrated into the marriage system and family exchanges. Their dense yet controlled decoration testifies to a goldsmithing skill where protective function and aesthetic pursuits meet with restraint. Bibliography: Wolf-Dieter Seiwert, Jewellery from the Orient – Treasures from the Bir Collection, Arnoldsche Art Publishers, Stuttgart, 2009, p. 329, for a similar example."