Bamana (Bambara) Brass Cuff Bracelet – Mali, West Africa – Cast Brass Geometric Bracelet

This substantial brass cuff bracelet is attributed to the Bamana (Bambara) cultural region of Mali, West Africa. Bracelets of this type were worn as personal adornment and markers of status within Sahelian societies. The decoration consists of repeated geometric panels incorporating cross-hatched lozenges and rows of punched dots, motifs widely found in Bamana metalwork and related regional traditions.

The bracelet was produced in cast brass, likely using the lost-wax process, followed by engraving and punch decoration to articulate the geometric patterning. The interior remains smooth while the exterior carries carefully incised and stamped motifs. Surface wear and patination are consistent with age and use. Pieces of this type are widely collected as examples of West African metalwork and personal ornament.

Circa: late 19th – early 20th century

Provenance:
Egon Guenther Collection, by family descent to Thomas Guenther Collection

Measurements:
Diameter 8.63 cm
Inner diameter 7.52 cm
Width 2.66 cm
Weight: 268 g