Old Hair Tube - Wodaabe, (Fulani offshoot) W. Africa (F)

Old tube hair beads made of brass and/or copper alloys using the lost wax casting method which has been widely practiced on the African continent for centuries. Certain groups within the Fulani tribe still lead the nomadic lifestyle of their ancestors. They have resisted where possible all outside influence and cultural change. They call themselves Wodaabe, meaning 'people of the taboo', that is, those who adhere to the traditional code of behavior.

Living in central Niger, parts of Nigeria & Cameroon, they travel in small family groups, in search of grazing land for their cattle, camels and donkeys. The Fulani believe that they were given the greatest beauty on earth, & they rely strongly on jewelry to further beautify themselves.
Their concern for beauty is also evident in the hairstyles & hair decoration of the women. Long plaits of hair wrapped in brass hair tubes like these indicate that a girl thus adorned is considered particularly beautiful.

1 1/8" long with about a ½" opening. (28.5mm)