Ring

Inland Niger Delta Style · 13th-14th century

The surface patina of this ring suggests it was once buried, possibly recovered from an archaeological site. The design--cast copper alloy with delicate linear decoration and the projecting spikes connected with iron pins--is distinctive to the Inland Niger Delta region. This ring is similar to contemporary rings that are worn in pairs by women and are used almost like castanets. Other sources have described similar examples as horse bells.