rare African currency in the shape of a spade or hoe

Characterized by its open shape capped with geometric ends, this bracelet is but one form of the many types of body adornments favored the Fulani people of West Africa. The thick des...

In many pre-colonial regions of Africa, iron was so valuable that tools often doubled as currencies for rare but significant transactions. This large iron form is a currency piece from the Afo peoples of northern Nigeria, and is modeled after the blade of a hoe. Used to till the hard soil and harvest crops, the hoe was highly valued as a symbol of the community's reliance on the earth and traditional agriculture. With its clean lines and irregular surface texture, the currency blade...

Extra Large Curved Hoe Currency Angas, Nigeria Early 20th century Iron 20.5 x 16 in. / 52 x 41 cm Height on custom display stand: 25 in. / 64 cm Weight: 7.2 pounds / 3.3 kg Combined weight with base: 14.3 pounds / 6.5 kg The large currency forms are comprised of a heavy sheet of iron forged into the shape of a curved hoe. They were customary gifts for a bride’s father as well as having a function during wedding celebrations (Ballarini, The Perfect Form...

Extra Large Curved Hoe Currency Angas, Nigeria Early 20th century Iron 25.25 x 17.5 in. / 64 x 44 cm Height on custom display stand: 29.75 in. / 76 cm Weight: 12.8 pounds / 5.8 kg Combined weight with base: 20.6 pounds / 9.3 kg The large currency forms are comprised of a heavy sheet of iron forged into the shape of a curved hoe. They were customary gifts for a bride’s father as well as having a function during wedding celebrations (Ballarini, The Perfect Form...

A rare figurative harp from made by the Vuvi or Tsogo people of Gabon. It is an instrument traditionally played by young men and boys. These rare instruments are well known for their...

The Art Of African Textiles Clarke, Duncan. Published by Thunder Bay., San Diego., 2002. This book offers a fascinating journey through the history and culture of textiles in Afric...