Code: NECK86

OBJECT STUDY

Two strands archived together. The brass strand presents small barrel-form beads, uniformly cast with slight seam ridges visible along the barrel walls. Surface patina is a darkened warm gold throughout, with localized verdigris oxidation breaking through at several contact points, indicating prolonged wear against skin or textile. The macro image confirms pitting and surface scoring consistent with age and handling. Closure is a braided sage-green cord, twisted from multiple silk or synthetic threads, knotted through the terminal beads. The nickel silver strand carries wider, flatter disc-cylinder beads, brighter in tone with a cool grey finish. Surface pitting and minor denting visible across individual units. Closed with a frayed rust-brown textile cord. Both strands reflect the Helshi bead tradition, a form of hand-formed metal bead production rooted in East and Central African adornment practice.

CONSTRUCTION DETAILS

• Materials: cast brass (warm strand), nickel silver (cool strand)
• Bead form: barrel and disc-cylinder profile
• Patina: verdigris oxidation on brass, grey tarnish on nickel
• Closure: twisted textile cord, knotted
• Length: 76 cm
• Weight feel: medium, dense