Mambila - Nigeria (No reserve price)

01
day
18
hours
59
minutes
44
seconds
Current bid
€ 1
No reserve price
Dimitri André
Expert
Selected by Dimitri André

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

Estimate  € 160 - € 190
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Forged iron artwork from the Mambila culture in Nigeria, provenance Private Collection, height 68 cm.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

Some populations resorted to barter to exchange goods. Then, the first true monetary system appeared: small porcelain shells called cauris.
Africa is particularly rich in so-called primitive currencies, many of which are made of black iron, a metal that is highly sought after; others are made of copper, more precious than gold, brought by the Portuguese to pay for slaves; and some are crafted from glass beads, human or animal teeth, representing 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 marriage.

Seller's Story

I am a professional seller of African art objects, holding a VAT number.
Translated by Google Translate

Some populations resorted to barter to exchange goods. Then, the first true monetary system appeared: small porcelain shells called cauris.
Africa is particularly rich in so-called primitive currencies, many of which are made of black iron, a metal that is highly sought after; others are made of copper, more precious than gold, brought by the Portuguese to pay for slaves; and some are crafted from glass beads, human or animal teeth, representing 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 marriage.

Seller's Story

I am a professional seller of African art objects, holding a VAT number.
Translated by Google Translate

Details

No. of items
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Mambila
Country of Origin
Nigeria
Material
Iron (wrought)
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Height
68 cm
Provenance
Private collection
Sold by
BelgiumVerified
1858
Objects sold
98.86%
Privatetop

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