GAN Crescent Coiled-Ring Pendant (Pair with 818; 16th–19th cent., 11 cm)

One of two small, ancient Gan bronze pendants. This piece is a crescent or crescent-shaped bar adorned with heavy, coiled ring motifs and a suspension loop. The bronze bears a dry, crusty, verdigris patina.

1. Aesthetic Style and Regional Traits

The crescent shape often references lunar cycles, agricultural timing, or specific deities within the Burkina Faso region. The heavy coiled rings add physical weight and symbolic texture to the object. The Gan crescent-and-coil pendant format integrates lunar/temporal iconography with the binding/coiling motifs that recur across the Gan ceremonial corpus.

2. Ritual Function and Personal Protection

Cast on an intimate scale, this object was a highly personal amulet. It was worn by individuals of significant social or spiritual standing — such as diviners or successful warriors — to ensure constant, mobile protection from witchcraft and misfortune. The strong suspension loop confirms its function as a wearable, active magical agent rather than a stationary shrine piece.

3. Physical Patina and Age Verification

The extreme age of this small bronze is evident in its surface condition. The metal has completely lost its original sheen, replaced by a thick, crusty layer of oxidized copper (malachite) and hardened earth. This deep, uncleaned archaeological weathering is the direct result of centuries of burial or environmental exposure, confirming its 16th–19th century origins.

Summary

A rare and intimate example of ancient Gan bronze casting, perfectly utilizing crescent and coiled forms for personal talismanic protection. Its profound archaeological patina secures its authenticity as a significant Burkinabe antiquity.