Late 18th Century Colonial Era, Original Hand-Forged Iron Slave Ankle “Bracelet” measuring 3.5” x 4” with an inner diameter of about 2.5” with Internal small Iron Ball “Rattles” to made noise likely Child Size, Fine.
A noise making Slave Ankle “Bracelet” that Rattles, 100% original working and untouched. A tangible testament to the malevolence of Slavery. Because this particular type of Rattle does not have iron loops or openings to “thread” iron chain through, it would have likely been attached to the ankle or wrist of a House Slave who worked strictly inside the plantation house, and thus was under very close supervision by the plantation owner and/or family members. This 18th century, SLAVE Ankle Rattle was used by Slave Owners and Overseers from plantations in the Southern states. The sides of the Rattle Shackle are constructed of lateral “pockets”, this smaller size has One Pocket containing one small, iron ball/orb that would “Rattle” when the wearer moved about. This smaller size example likely made for a child, excellent for display having a natural even patina.

Black History, Colonial, Slave, Bracelet, Slavery, Plantation