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Man’s belt ornament charivari kette
Austria and Germany, Bavarian Alps
19th century
Metal, horn, animal teeth and claws
Gift of the SAMEG in 2014
MEG Inv . ETHEU 066346 ; 066347 ; 066348

Notice

This piece of jewellery takes its name from a custom, the charivari, which sanctioned unacceptable behaviour with a noisy cacophony. The various ornaments refer to events in the family history, the hunter’s skill and the ritual sharing of the spoils. The noise made by the trinkets was not only a source of pride but reminded the owner of his social duties.


© 2015 Musée d'ethnographie, Genève
Ville de Genève, Département de la culture et du sport