Background

 Large, hollow, oblate sphere of toned red-copper made by the Jonga (incl. Nkutshu, Mongo, Mbole), Congo River region.  Mostly soccer ball size, some larger.  Worn at the ankle and used in dowry.  Ballarini The Perfect Form p. 288-289 lists five named denominations by size, though observed specimens are quite variable in size and weight. Opitz An Ethnographic Study of Primitive Money (2000) p. 201.  I do not know when these were made or used but from the appearance of the copper I would guess 19th to early 20th century.  AAs with most legband currencies, these were worn for many years and removed at death by blacksmiths, so many specimens have flat spots from impacts and/or cracks in the edge.  "Perfect" specimens are suspect and may have been made after the period of actual use; 


Description

ONE item: Weight: 1.93 kilo (68 oz.); Size:  258mm (10.15") across, 130mm (5.4") high; Condition: Medium brown, lightly brushed & waxed  Only a few minor flat spots from a lifetime of impacts, as can be expected in for any genuine legband that has actually seen use.

Photos

You will receive the exact item shown.  Smaller objects in the photo are to show relative size and are not included.

Shipping

US addresses:   $20.00 in priority mail flat rate box; Outside USA: $80 (Canada I will refund $20).  Combined shipping available. 

Questions?


If you have any questions, please contact me.  Looking for something not offered here?  Feel free to ask.  I have a huge stock of African ethnographic money items at down-to earth prices.  


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