Summary

Silver and tortoiseshell hand-crafted bracelet created by an unknown Italian man interned at Loveday Internment Camp in South Australia, around 1943.

Upon his release, this unknown bracelet-maker gave it to Belgio Manca, a fellow Italian internee at the camp in order for him to complete the bracelet. Belgio was released three weeks later and was unable to finish the project. He tried to locate the maker in Melbourne where he had relocated but was unsuccessful and the bracelet remained in Belgio's safekeeping ever since. Belgio himself had made many rings from silver coins and other artefacts for the Australian internment camp guards in exchange for goods or money.

Physical Description

Bracelet made from a series of hand-made silver links, each with tortoiseshell insets.

Significance

Statement of Historical Significance:
This object represents the important theme of internment and restriction of 'enemy aliens' during World War II. It complements other material in the Museum's collection relating to German and Italian internment such as the Karl Muffler German pastry chef and internee collection. It is a fine example of camp craft, a popular pursuit to utilise skills, keep occupied and even to secure a small income for bartering goods during long years of internment.

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