Neck ring (onlua)
20th century
Object PlaceDemocratic Republic of the Congo
Medium/TechniqueCopper alloy
DimensionsOverall: 28.3 cm (11 1/8 in.)
Credit LineAnonymous gift
Accession number2009.5353
On View
Not on viewClassificationsJewelry / Adornment
Collections
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)
20th century
early to mid-20th century
early to mid-20th century
early to mid-20th century
20th century
20th century
20th century
20th century
20th century
Royal Bronze-casting Guild (Igun Eronmwon)
18th–19th century