(ISLAM.) Malcolm X (el Hajj el Malik Shabazz). Hand-carved two-piece wooden pendant, with a long phrase in classic Arabic beneath an applied three part projection of the earth. Two pieces, one 4 x 1 inch, a carved face; the other 2-3/4 x 3-1/2 inches, a kidney-shaped piece with three applied circles of lighter wood, beneath which is the Arabic quote; both pieces connected by a piece of leather thong. Np, circa 1970's
This pendant was carved for Malcolm X's half-sister, Ella Little Collins. It was purchased from her estate, sold by a member of her family. Five examples of the pendant were carved; all are now accounted for. Each pendant was given to a significant member of the Organization of African American Unity. A number of the pendants were buried with the original owner or with their loved ones. The OAAU was founded by Malcolm X. After his assassination, his half-sister Ella Little Collins took over the leadership of the OAAU as president. Other items once belonging to Malcolm X from Ella Little Collin's estate are on exhibit at Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
