Ethnic Design-Bridal Iron Hoe Currency, Afo Peoples Nigeria

Used as forms of currency, they could also serve as a musical or ritual object. Displayed on a custom mount.

This vessel demonstrates anthropomorphic qualities through the subtle inclusion of human-like features. The rounded form evokes the shape of a torso or belly, while the small facial ...

This vessel exemplifies the anthropomorphic style, incorporating distinct human-like features into its design. Most notably, the upper portion of the vessel includes a stylized human...

This vessel vividly illustrates anthropomorphic design through its bold depiction of a human-like figure. The spout is sculpted as an open-mouthed face, complete with stylized eyes a...

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...

Extra Large Curved Hoe currency Angas, Nigeria Early 20th century Iron Measures: 29.5 x 20.5 in. / 75 x 52 cm Height on custom display stand: 33.25 in. / 84 cm Weight: 20.6 pounds / 9.34 kg Combined weight with base: 43.8 pounds / 19.9 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 fantastic 19th century Afo culture wrought iron spade currency piece mounted on custom steel stand. Currency pieces like these were used for large purchases including land or lives...

Hoe-Shaped Currency "Mbili Ngbaka," Ngbaka, D.R. Congo 20th century Iron, accumulation 16 x 7 in. / 41 x 18 cm Height on custom display stand: 18.25 in. / 46 cm This interesting type of iron currency was used for major transactions such as dowry payments. The two wings added to the lower tips of the hoe underline the non-utilitarian character of this type of currency (Ballarini, "The Perfect Form...