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African Currency, Thoung Knife
About the Item
Most forms were developed from traditional metal objects that were already in use such as weapons, tools, bracelets and anklets. While some continued to be functional for work or decorative purposes, most evolved into "pure" currency, deliberately unusable except as objects recognized, prized and accepted widely as payment. The unusual forms and sizes of ethnographic currencies are both fascinating and surprising. They range in size from the smallest personal adornments such as beads, shells, and jewelry to massive iron forms weighing as much as 100 pounds. These "Primitive" monies were both aesthetic and functional and were used to buy everyday items as food, cloth and tools as well as major life transactions: the purchase of land, livestock and brides. These objects served as a means of exchange as well as symbols of wealth and power. Check out our African weapons for additional currency pieces.
- Dimensions:Height: 23 in (58.42 cm)Width: 5 in (12.7 cm)Depth: 5 in (12.7 cm)
- Style:Tribal (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Unknown
- Condition:
- Seller Location:Dallas, TX
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU85146219103
About the Seller
5.0
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