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Camel Bell
Camel Bell

Camel Bell

DateProbably 18th to19th century
MediumBronze
DimensionsH. 9 1/4 in. (23.5 cm)
ClassificationsMetal
Credit LineGift of Elizabeth Walker Capps
Object numberG.66.20.1
On View
On view
Label TextThis Moroccan camel bell has Arabic calligraphy detailed on its surface. Such scripts are usually Qur’anic verses and are found on bells throughout West Asia and North Africa.

Due to their unique water-storing ability, camels have long been used to carry goods across the dry, arid lands of northern Africa. To keep track of a camel during their journey, owners would tie a wooden or metal bell like this to its neck. Although utilitarian, these bells have come to symbolize and celebrate nomadic cultures of North Africa.
Published References"Acquisitions," North Carolina Museum of Art Bulletin 7, nos. 2 and 3 (1967/68?), listed 70
Exhibition HistoryRaleigh, NC, North Carolina Museum of Art, "The People's Collection, Reimagined," October 7, 2022–present. Object Rights Statement

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Northern Nigerian (probably Hausa) artist
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