Hand- Forged Iron Currency with Leather - Kirdi, or Mafa/Matakam People, Cameroon 7

This unusual and elaborate multi-spiraled, currency piece would have been used as a form of exchange or trade. Currency took many forms in ancient Africa. Common across the continent were metal objects shaped like spearheads, coins and spirals.

Estate of Distinguished Professor Philip Gould, NYC; Exhibited "Africa's Iron & Copper Currencies", Institute of African Studies, Columbia University, March 2000

Professor of Chinese Art History at Columbia University and Sarah Lawrence College, Professor Philip Gould was a passionate collector of African Art, and curated numerous museum and gallery exhibitions from his personal collection.

Height: 4 1/4" x Width: 8"