Kotoko Ring with Figural Motif

A small bronze creature, wound around the band and not letting go.

Kotoko casters of Chad, Central Africa, made this ring with a figural motif in bronze in the 20th century. Figures on Kotoko rings are commonly animals or people, and the rings were worn as adornment. A slim, curved, almost serpentine body rises from the band with a rounded head, then splits at the base into two arms or claws that clasp the hoop. The bronze is polished to a warm yellow, with dark, rough pits at the joins. The overall effect is sleek and slightly strange.

About 1.8 inches tall. Hard to say what it is, easy to enjoy.