Traditional Somali Artifacts

Wood, Herding, Nomadic Somali Museum Wood, Herding, Nomadic Somali Museum

Koor

The koor is a wooden bell that hangs from a camel’s neck on a strap, producing a sound that helps herders track their animals in dense, bushy terrain.

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Wood, Herding, Nomadic Somali Museum Wood, Herding, Nomadic Somali Museum

Barjin/Barkin

Barshin or barkin is a wooden headrest used by herders. It is used for hair protection by camel herders that grow big afros dressed in fat or oil or camel bone marrow.

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Shell, Jewelry, Coastal Somali Museum Shell, Jewelry, Coastal Somali Museum

Silis Golof Badeed

Somali women’s jewelry, including seashell necklaces, is rich in cultural symbolism, craftsmanship, and tradition. Seashells are particularly significant because they are sourced from the vast coastline of Somalia, which stretches along the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden.

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Animal Skin, Wood, Music, General Somali Museum Animal Skin, Wood, Music, General Somali Museum

Durbaan

Somali drums known as durbaan, play a key role in somali traditional music and cultural ceremonies. These drums are crafted from hollowed-out wood with animal skin stretched over the top, producing deep, resonant sounds.

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Wood, Cutlery, General Somali Museum Wood, Cutlery, General Somali Museum

Fandhaal

The fandhaal is a wooden spoon primarily used for eating. It features a long handle and a flat surface, crafted from durable wood.

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Animal Skin, Wood, Furniture, General Somali Museum Animal Skin, Wood, Furniture, General Somali Museum

Gambar

The gambar is a stool made from wood and leather. It is used in many Somali spaces all across the region, from homes to markets. Often, they are pictured in kitchens used by women sitting comfortably close to the ground as they cook together. The animal skin is decorated with simple geometric carvings or personalized symbols.

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Wood, Religious, General Somali Museum Wood, Religious, General Somali Museum

Loox

The loox held the place of a book in traditional Somali society. It is made from carved wood and was primarily used for teaching Quranic lessons. Once a lesson was memorized, the writing on the loox would be washed off to prepare it for the next lesson.

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