Big Antique Yoruba Diviner's Protection Odigba Ifa Necklace Beads Nigeria Africa

Description

This is a rare, antique, Yoruba tribally made and used, beaded diviner's Odigba Ife
necklace which has two pendants one which hangs in the front and one which hangs in the back. Both glass seed beaded panel pendants are decorated with geometric designs on the front and hand woven fabric on back. The larger front beaded pendant opens to reveal the fabric back and an old pouch which once contained what was believed by the Yoruba to be magical substances & items which help to protect the diviner wearing the necklace. Great condition but underneath the larger front beaded pendant when opened was a sewn shut pouch which now has a hole in the deteriorated fabric of the pouch probably from having the shaman's magical substances removed to deactivate the necklace. Also, the back fabric of this piece is very deteriorated with holes which attests to the age of this piece. The white antique European mandrel wound beads are in great condition with a few having slight cracks. There is also a large antique Italian seven layer chevron bead strung next to the back pendant. The back pendant is in great condition. A few loose bead strands.
T
his beaded Yoruba tribal specimen comes from Nigeria, Africa. The beaded panel pendants not including the beaded dangles measures 5.60 inches long by 6.67 inches wide and 4.73 inches long by 4.20 inches wide and they both have very intricate beadwork and great colors. The necklace strands measure 40 inches long on each side! These Odigba Ifa necklaces were worn by the diviners for protection as it was believed that the beaded panels when worn hang over vulnerable
areas
for the diviner at the chest
and the back which protect these areas from attack from spirits or rival diviners. I combine shipping on multiple buys so be sure to check out my ebay store. For buyers of multiple items please email me when you are done shopping for your custom made invoice with combined shipping & insurance fees.