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Gong Currency, Chamba, Nigeria

About the Item

Chamba, Nigeria, Africa Iron Early 20th century 14.5 x 7 in. / 37 x 18 cm Height on custom display stand: 16.5 in. / 42 cm Various models of these original currency bearers were manufactured by the Chamba tribe. The bearing iron can have an oval, circular, or square shape. Suspended on this bearing, we have elongated iron pieces that resemble curled tobacco leaves, i.e. loose hanging change. This piece shows the monetary scale of the Chamba tribe; they could have been spent both singularly and all at once (Ballarini, The Perfect Form, 2009).
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 14 in (35.56 cm)Width: 7 in (17.78 cm)Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)
  • Style:
    Other (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Iron,Forged
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    20th century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Point Richmond, CA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: MOG#10511stDibs: LU1778238023042
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