Manilla - Nigeria (No reserve price)
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€ 1
No reserve price
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Two antique bronze Manilla from Nigeria, used historically as trade money and a sign of status, with detailed hand‑engraved geometric motifs, the heavier piece measuring 8.5 cm high with ends 2.5 × 1.5 cm and weighing 370 g, and the slimmer piece 7 cm high with ends 2 × 1 cm and weighing 306 g, both in good antique condition with patina and verdigris traces, provenance Veilinghuis.
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Description from the seller
Two beautiful West African manillas (trade money or ring money) from the 19th or early 20th century. These heavy, horseshoe-shaped objects were used for centuries in West Africa (notably Nigeria) as pre-monetary means of exchange, jewelry, and a status symbol. What makes these two pieces special is the detailed craftsmanship. The ends and sides are adorned with fine, hand-engraved geometric patterns, including ring engravings, parallel lines, and stamp motifs. Both manillas are in excellent antique condition with a deep, well-worn dark brown patina. In the deeper engravings there are subtle traces of authentic green copper oxidation (verdigris).
The thick manilla is 8.5 cm high and wide. End band 2.5 x 1.5 cm
370 g
The narrower manilla is 7 cm high
9 cm wide. End band 2 x 1 cm.
306 g
Condition: Good, authentic condition with natural aging wear and original patina. See the photos for a full personal impression.
Two beautiful West African manillas (trade money or ring money) from the 19th or early 20th century. These heavy, horseshoe-shaped objects were used for centuries in West Africa (notably Nigeria) as pre-monetary means of exchange, jewelry, and a status symbol. What makes these two pieces special is the detailed craftsmanship. The ends and sides are adorned with fine, hand-engraved geometric patterns, including ring engravings, parallel lines, and stamp motifs. Both manillas are in excellent antique condition with a deep, well-worn dark brown patina. In the deeper engravings there are subtle traces of authentic green copper oxidation (verdigris).
The thick manilla is 8.5 cm high and wide. End band 2.5 x 1.5 cm
370 g
The narrower manilla is 7 cm high
9 cm wide. End band 2 x 1 cm.
306 g
Condition: Good, authentic condition with natural aging wear and original patina. See the photos for a full personal impression.
Details
Indigenous object name
Manilla
Number of objects
2
Country of Origin
Nigeria
Material
Bronze
Condition
Excellent condition
Provenance
Auction house
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