Copper Currency - Ambi - Mbole - DR Congo
08
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€ 1
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 170 - € 200
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“Copper Currency” is an original Mbole Ambi copper currency object from the DR Congo, measuring 10 × 16 × 16 cm.
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Description from the seller
Mbole Ambi Copper Currency.
DR Congo.
Mbole currency, famously known as ambi, is a striking form of traditional African wealth hand-forged from a single ingot of copper or brass. Created by master blacksmiths in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, these heavy, crescent-shaped anklets feature deeply compressed curves and a smooth, minimalist aesthetic. The scarcity of copper in the equatorial region transformed these objects into highly prized stores of value, combining raw material worth with exceptional sculptural craftsmanship.
Rather than everyday pocket change, these prestigious metal rings were reserved for life’s most significant transactions, such as settling bridewealth marriages and securing high ranks within secret societies. Today, the ambi has transcended its original economic purpose to become a celebrated icon of African tribal art. Its bold, geometric form and rich, oxidized patina make it a sought-after piece for art collectors worldwide.
Object type: Ambi Currency
Tribe: Mbole
Material: copper
Height: 10 cm
The condition and potential fragments or signs of wear are documented in detail through presented photographs.
Shipment is included following further defined rates. Other delivery or pickup methods can be organised accordingly.
Seller's Story
Galerie Mutu is home to African fine art, ethnography and unique interior objects.
Galerie Mutu est un lieu de découverte d'art africain, pour le collectionneur contemporain passionné.
Galerie Mutu looft cultuur, authenticiteit en vakmanschap van onze Afrikaanse voorouders.
Website: galeriemutu .com
Instagram: galerie.mutu
E-mail: info@galeriemutu .com
Mbole Ambi Copper Currency.
DR Congo.
Mbole currency, famously known as ambi, is a striking form of traditional African wealth hand-forged from a single ingot of copper or brass. Created by master blacksmiths in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, these heavy, crescent-shaped anklets feature deeply compressed curves and a smooth, minimalist aesthetic. The scarcity of copper in the equatorial region transformed these objects into highly prized stores of value, combining raw material worth with exceptional sculptural craftsmanship.
Rather than everyday pocket change, these prestigious metal rings were reserved for life’s most significant transactions, such as settling bridewealth marriages and securing high ranks within secret societies. Today, the ambi has transcended its original economic purpose to become a celebrated icon of African tribal art. Its bold, geometric form and rich, oxidized patina make it a sought-after piece for art collectors worldwide.
Object type: Ambi Currency
Tribe: Mbole
Material: copper
Height: 10 cm
The condition and potential fragments or signs of wear are documented in detail through presented photographs.
Shipment is included following further defined rates. Other delivery or pickup methods can be organised accordingly.
Seller's Story
Galerie Mutu is home to African fine art, ethnography and unique interior objects.
Galerie Mutu est un lieu de découverte d'art africain, pour le collectionneur contemporain passionné.
Galerie Mutu looft cultuur, authenticiteit en vakmanschap van onze Afrikaanse voorouders.
Website: galeriemutu .com
Instagram: galerie.mutu
E-mail: info@galeriemutu .com
Details
Indigenous object name
Ambi
Ethnic group/ culture
Mbole
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Material
Copper
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Fair condition
Title of artwork
Copper Currency
Height
10 cm
Width
16 cm
Depth
16 cm
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
