Rhythms of Color: Mounted Beaded Belt with Geometric Motifs and Cowrie Shells

A vibrant, handwoven beaded belt—traditionally known as a cache-sex—crafted from multicolored glass beads arranged in a dynamic diamond motif of red, green, blue, orange, and white. Along the lower edge, braided fiber tassels terminate in natural cowrie shells, elements widely associated with wealth, fertility, trade, and spiritual protection across numerous African and Oceanic cultures. The piece is mounted on a custom black metal stand, elevating it from wearable adornment to sculptural display and allowing the intricate beadwork, rhythmic geometry, and tactile interplay of materials to be fully appreciated. Both decorative and ceremonial in nature, this belt exemplifies the cultural significance of beadwork as a medium through which identity, status, and artistry are expressed.
Dimensions: Height 12.5 in (31.8 cm); Width 20 in (50.8 cm); Depth 3 in (7.6 cm).