Kandake Maasai Beaded Choker Bead with Metal Tassels | East African Beaded Choker with Tassels | Nile Valley Jewelry | Tribal & Ethnic | Afrocentric

Stunning Kandake Maasai Beaded Choker with  Metal Tassels.

Kandake is an Ancient term from the Nile Valley denoting a Queen Mother, Queen Regent or Royal Woman. Also spelled as Candace in Latin. The Kandakes of Meroe, Ancient Kingdom of Kush, ruled from the city of Meroe, now modern day Sudan. This esteemed title was also applied to the Kandake, or Warrior Queen, who drove invaders out of Kush on elephant. With great reverence, Kandake is said to have also originally referred to the Mother of the King, from around 170 BC to 314 AD. These Queen Mothers had their own court, were land holders, and held position in the secular world as Regent. She was the One Who Would Bear the Next Heir, as matrilineal tradition dictated that you could ascend to the thrown without coming through the womb of a royal woman.

The Maasai people chiefly inhabit the areas between Southern Kenya and Northern Tanzania. In the culture, a woman's status and position in society are reflected in the beadwork she wears, which in modern times is shown in detailed beadwork and color patterns. As in tradition, the more beads worn, the higher her status.

This lovely, colorful piece features a choker, flexible, that cannot accommodate up to 21" neck size. The choker is accented on the bottom row with white beads, red dangling beads and tassels. The intricate beadwork showcases the neck and ties in the back, typically fastened in a sideways "U" shape. Loop from the top to the opposite side, then downwards and across.

For a more festive look, pair with Maasai earrings and bracelets.

Made in Kenya.

For a more festive look, pair with Maasai earrings and bracelets.

Made in Kenya.