Primitive money - Wanshipta - Moudi Kirdi - Nigeria (No reserve price)

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07
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€ 3
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Dimitri André
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Selected by Dimitri André

Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.

Estimate  € 90 - € 140
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Primitive coin, Wanshipta, from the Moudi Kirdi people of Nigeria, forged iron, 64 cm high, 9 cm wide, 2 cm deep, weighing 1.477 kg, dating to the mid-20th century, sold without a stand and in good condition.

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Description from the seller

Populations resorted to barter to exchange goods. Then the first true monetary system appeared: small porcelain shells called cowries.

Africa is particularly rich in so-called primitive currencies, many made of black iron, a highly sought-after metal; others are made of copper, more precious than gold, brought by the Portuguese to pay for slaves; some are made of glass beads, human or animal teeth. Each currency is an artistic treasure.

All these currencies were used to finalize transactions between individuals or tribes. They could also be used for personal purposes, such as buying livestock, consumer goods, or serving as a dowry for a wedding.

Populations resorted to barter to exchange goods. Then the first true monetary system appeared: small porcelain shells called cowries.

Africa is particularly rich in so-called primitive currencies, many made of black iron, a highly sought-after metal; others are made of copper, more precious than gold, brought by the Portuguese to pay for slaves; some are made of glass beads, human or animal teeth. Each currency is an artistic treasure.

All these currencies were used to finalize transactions between individuals or tribes. They could also be used for personal purposes, such as buying livestock, consumer goods, or serving as a dowry for a wedding.

Details

Indigenous object name
Wanshipta
No. of items
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Moudi Kirdi
Country of Origin
Nigeria
Period
Mid 20th century
Material
Iron (wrought)
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Fair condition
Title of artwork
Primitive money
Height
64 cm
Width
9 cm
Depth
2 cm
Weight
1.48 kg
Sold by
FranceVerified
400
Objects sold
Private

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