Five snuff rings
Tiv, Nigeria
Brass or copper alloy
4.5 (11.4 cm) to 2.25 (6.7 cm) inches high
19th century
A nice collection of five lost wax cast snuff rings used in the Tiv culture of Nigeria. These were worn on the finger and a pinch of tobacco snuff was placed on the disk and raised to the nostril.
The example with the flat stem has braided vertical designs and the tallest sports three balls at the base of the stem. Rich patina from age and use.
Cf. The Arts of Benue, 1985, François Neyt (p. 200, photo IV.45)
$1100
