This pair of fine, sculptural West African currency bracelets are of ‘C’ form. Each has been cast with three rounded, tiered protuberances, and is incised with geometric and circle motifs.
Thick metal bracelets and anklets such as these probably were not meant to be worn regularly but instead served as a form of wealth and could be used to conclude transaction among the groups living in West African countries such as Congo and Ghana.
This pair has a wonderful colour and patina. Their contours have been worn smooth from wear, age and handling.
Though heavy, the bracelets are wearable and will fit most wrists.
References
Grootaers, J. L. & I. Eisenburger, Forms of Wonderment: The History and Collections of the Afrika Museum, Berg en Dal, 2002.