A formidable silver flared Siwa cuff, called Swar, part of a woman's dowry at marriage. This large and substantial Berber bracelet was worn in the Siwa Oasis in Egypt as well as by other North African countries. This particular bracelet is made by one of Egypt's most renowned silversmiths, Muhammad Al Makkawi. It is made of 90% pure silver and has several Al Makkawi signature marks on the inside and on the knobs. It also carries the three part Egyptian silver hallmark which has the 900 silver assay mark as well as the date assayed which is 1942-43.
The bracelet is flared at its ends and thinner at the front with two knobs on either side. There are various hand etched floral and vegetal motifs. The bracelet is in fine vintage condition.
21 cm (8 1/4") inner circumference, including a 2 cm gap or 3/4". It is slightly expandable.
The diameter is 6.8 cm (2 11/16").
Width is 5.5 cm wide at the front - 10 cm wide at the ends (2 3/16" - 4").
