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Afo hoe currency from Nigeria 07.02.744

Generally referred to as "Afo hoe currencies" or "galmas", these rare and enigmatic objects are the largest and heaviest tribally smelted and forged iron artifacts in Africa. Found only in Nigeria, and primarily used by the Afo and Ngas people as traditional currency for bride price or land transactions/disputes, these huge, mysterious masses of high quality wrought charcoal iron seemed to disappear from the Nigerian cultural milieu as suddenly as they appeared. Accurate dating of these is somewhat difficult, as relevant literature is scarce - the consensus seems to be 18th to 19th century, or earlier. The present example has a minor crack (see pictures) otherwise in good condition.

 

  • Ref.:07.02.744
  • Size:Height: 610 mm (incl. stand), width 4190 mm
  • Weight:8.5 kg

Category

  • South and Central Nigeria 07.02West-, Central- & North Africa 29.01
  • AFRICAN TRIBAL CURRENCIES 07REGIONAL GALLERIES 29

Origin

  • West and Central Africa
  • NIGERIA
  • Angas

Material

  • MetalIron

Quality

  • High aesthetic valueCollectible (fine or rare example of an object)Delivered with it's own standFair condition (some missing, broken or repaired parts, see pictures)

880.00
CHF
$
Similar items
incl. stand. Contact us for shipping costs