Ear Pendant c. 20th century

These ear pendants were made by Ida ou Nadif, an Amazigh (Berber) artist. I love how the artist uses simple materials and shapes to create something so striking. The pendants are made of silver, with small square stones set into the metalwork. The surface of the silver is textured, almost hammered, giving it a tactile quality. Look closely and you can see the marks of the tools that were used to shape the metal. Each element is carefully placed, creating a sense of balance and harmony, but it also looks like a record of an action. The square stones create little pops of warmth. They draw you in, adding depth and richness to the design. The roundels in between the square stones are like little worlds unto themselves. Together it feels like a conversation, or a dance. I'm reminded of the work of Anni Albers, who also used simple forms and materials to create works of great beauty and complexity. Like Albers' weavings, these earrings are a testament to the power of craft and the beauty of simple things.