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Neck ring (onlua)
Teke
20th century
Object Place: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Medium/Technique
Copper alloy
Dimensions
Overall: 28.3 cm (11 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Anonymous gift
Accession Number2009.5353
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsJewelry, Contemporary Art, Africa and Oceania
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Necklaces and neck bands
Neck rings, called onlua, were prestige items worn by chiefs and other high-ranking members of Teke society. Made of copper and intricately carved with abstract geometric or floral patterns, the neck rings served as visible symbols of wealth.
ProvenanceBetween 1980s and 1990s, acquired in Paris by anonymous donors; 2009, year-end anonymous gift to the MFA. (Accession date: January 20, 2010)